Pubdate: Tue, 22 Mar 2016
Source: Metro (Edmonton, CN AB)
Copyright: 2016 Metro Canada
Contact:  http://www.metronews.ca/Edmonton
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4475
Author: Samantha Power
Page: A1

LIQUOR STORES THINK POT SALES

Survey Results From Store Owners Expected at End of April

Even before Alberta Finance Minister Joe Ceci jokingly suggested 
retail pot sales go to liquor stores last week - which he quickly 
retracted - the Alberta Liquor Store Association says it was asking 
its members about the idea.

"We started the conversation back last year when the new federal 
government had a policy of legal marijuana," said Ivonne Martinez, 
president of the association.

No clear sales model has emerged following legal marijuana in the U. 
S.: Washington's market is supervised by the Washington Liquor 
Control Board, while Colorado's is monitored by the Marijuana 
Enforcement Division of the Department of Revenue. Colorado allows 
for retail distribution alongside medicinal marijuana, while 
Washington's laws prevent that integration.

But here in Alberta, the possibility of a legality change is seeing 
many prepare.

Martinez said ALSA members are being asked about the idea through a 
formal survey and direct conversations with store owners, and results 
should be known at the end of April.

She added her hope is the association will develop a preliminary 
policy position on retail pot sales in its member stores that 
reflects member needs, and then to take that position to government.

"When the time comes, we hope to sit at the table with the government 
as they develop the Alberta model," Martinez said. "If this is a good 
fit and if it is how we might be able to assist in the process in 
selling this product in a responsible way."

Ceci said last week there is no government policy yet in place. "When 
the feds make their decision then the Alberta government would make 
their decisions," he said.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom