Cannabis has made a big comeback in recent years. 

From hemp becoming legal nationwide to recreational dispensaries popping up, there are now more ways to enjoy cannabis than ever before.

Gone are the days of buying low-quality cannabis from shady sources. Today, with so many options, people are realizing that not all cannabis is the same. 

Different strains and products provide different effects, which is why some people have their favorites.

Even if you’re familiar with cannabis products, you might not know how to buy weed or the laws surrounding it.

Did you know, In Manitoba, one out of every five adults has used cannabis in the year 2021? 

Since legalization, another one in five adults are thinking about trying it.

 

Cannabis Legality in Manitoba

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Before cannabis became legal in Canada, many thought it would cause a big jump in cannabis use. 

However, lifetime use has only gone up a little in the past four years, from 55% to 63%. Current use (within the last 12 months) has increased from 21% to 35%. 

In Manitoba, the rate of active cannabis use is higher than the national average of 25%, according to the 2021 Canadian Cannabis Survey

This increase was expected, as a 2017 survey showed that 21% of non-users were interested in trying cannabis after legalization.

There are some differences based on age and location. Cannabis use in 2021 is highest among people aged 19 to 24 (56%) and lowest among those 65 and older (17%). 

People living in northern Manitoba (54%) are the most likely to have used cannabis in 2021.

 

Cannabis Use in Public

Cannabis Use in Public

Among cannabis users, 28% say they have used cannabis in public in the last year. More people said they smoked or vaped (23%) than those who used edibles (12%).

There are some differences depending on age and income. 

People aged 19 to 44 and those from lower-income households are more likely to have used cannabis in public. Only 12% of users aged 45 and older said they used cannabis in public in the past year.

 

Risk Reduction Strategies

Risk Reduction Strategies

Since 2017, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of cannabis users who use safer practices, especially a 10% increase in those who avoid driving after using cannabis, going from 75% to 85%.

There are some differences based on gender and age. Women (28%) are more than twice as likely as men (12%) to say they always choose lower-THC cannabis. 

People aged 25 to 34 (61%) are the least likely to avoid driving after using cannabis, which suggests a need for more education on the risks of driving after consuming cannabis for this age group.

 

Regulation and Education

Regulation and Education

Note: This table shows the percentage of Manitobans who prioritize or are concerned about various public health and safety aspects related to cannabis use. 

When asked about public health and safety rules, Manitobans are particularly concerned about preventing underage people from buying or using cannabis. They also strongly support having clear rules about cannabis use and driving.

 

So, How to Get Weed As a Beginner?

 

1. Know About the Available Cannabis/Weeds Products

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Today, there are a lot of options to choose from when it comes to Cannabis. Some of them includes – 

  • Edibles
  • Capsules
  • Flowers
  • Indica
  • Sativa
  • Hybrid
  • Candy
  • Gummies
  • Syrup
  • Teas
  • Vapes

 

2. You must be 19 years or older to buy or consume cannabis in Manitoba.

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After consulting with the people of Manitoba, the government decided that the legal age to use, buy, or have non-medical cannabis is 19.

To prevent underage purchases of weed for beginners:

  • Cannabis stores with age-restricted licenses are not allowed to let anyone under 19 enter the store.
  • Stores with controlled-access licenses can let young people enter, but cannabis must be kept out of sight and reach.
  • There are rules about what types of ID are needed to confirm a person’s age.

Fines for underage possession and use of cannabis will be the same as those for alcohol.

 

3. You can keep non-medical cannabis of about 30 grams in public.

 

In Manitoba, people aged 19 and older can have non-medical cannabis of about 30 grams in public. 

This follows the same rules as the federal limits. For more details, you can check with Justice Canada.

 

4. You can’t drive Under the Influence of Drugs in Manitoba.

 

It is illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs, including cannabis. 

If caught, drivers can be charged under the Criminal Code and face penalties like having their driver’s license suspended under the Highway Traffic Act. 

Driving while high is dangerous and can lead to injury, death, and serious legal consequences.

For a first offence, penalties can include a fine of at least $1,000, mandatory jail time for repeat offences, and a court-ordered driving ban of one to three years. 

Drivers may also face license suspensions, vehicle impoundment, and requirements to use ignition interlock devices under the Highway Traffic Act.

Police officers trained to spot impaired drivers can now use drug screening devices and, if the driver fails, require a blood test to check if they are over the legal limits.

 

5. You can’t grow cannabis at home in Manitoba.

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Manitoba has banned growing non-medical cannabis at home. 

While the federal government allows some restrictions, the provincial government can make stricter rules. 

Manitoba, along with Quebec and Nunavut, has decided not to allow any home growing of non-medical cannabis. This decision is based on public health and safety concerns.

Lastly

 

Choosing the right cannabis in Manitoba as a beginner can be tricky. Understanding how you can buy helps you make better choices and enjoy your cannabis experience more. 

The Green Ace is your go-to online dispensary in Canada where you can buy affordable weed, including flowers, strains, concentrates, and edibles.