How do you minimize the health impacts of marijuana in a country where it is legal to smoke – or otherwise consume – the drug?

As Canada approaches full legalization on July 1, 2018, a blue-ribbon panel of experts has provided an evidence-based answer to that thorny question and, on Friday, they will release a set of “lower-risk cannabis-use guidelines.”

The research, published in the American Journal of Public Health, is essentially a list of practical tips for current and potential marijuana smokers.

The guidelines begin with the statement that the health risks of cannabis – including impairment, pulmonary damage and neurological impacts – are most easily avoided by abstaining.

To follow up on last week’s operational update, Canopy Growth (WEED.TO) (TWMJF) issued an update highlighting operational developments as they relate to international milestones and innovative new product types.

The market responded positively to the company’s update last week and we are favorable on this update as they help increase visibility into growth initiatives and opportunities.

The biggest challenge for Justin Trudeau’s forthcoming legal recreational marijuana market is a shortage of pot, the finance minister of Canada’s most-populous province says.

Ontario’s Charles Sousa said a supply crunch was discussed during a meeting with provincial and federal counterparts this week. Canada is aiming to legalize recreational pot in the next 12 months, the first major economy to do so. One analyst said he’s concerned the government could use a supply shortage as an excuse to delay rolling out the program.

The city of Edmonton is looking at a zoning bylaw change that could pave the way for the establishment of cannabis lounges if they are allowed after marijuana is legalized in July 2018. 

In a report for city council, administration said these proposed amendments are a proactive step in getting ready for next year. 

"This new classification is intended to differentiate this use from other eating and drinking uses already defined in Zoning Bylaw 12800 (for example, bar and neighbourhood pubs)," city administration said in a report for next week's public hearing.

"Other jurisdictions, such as Denver, have found it necessary to provide places for tourists to consume cannabis — cannabis lounges would provide a land use classification to accommodate this activity."

Toronto police carried out more raids on marijuana dispensaries in the city Thursday morning.

A total of 12 warrants were executed in Toronto, with seven targeting British Columbia-based Canna Clinics store front locations, including the Queen St. W., and another in Kensington Market.

The other five raids in the city were at private residences.

Police seized illegal drugs and the proceeds from sales.

Toronto police corporate communications director Mark Pugash said the raids spanned across the country, with three other raids conducted at Canna Clinics locations in Vancouver.

“So far six people have been arrested,” said Pugash. “That number may change as people are in the process of being dealt with.”

The Canadian government must make it easier to study cannabis, say the country’s top cannabis academics and public health researchers in an open letter to politicians.

“Under widespread global prohibition, cannabis research has been limited by the criminalization and stigmatization of cannabis use and users, leading to substantial gaps in knowledge around the harms and benefits of both medical and non-medical cannabis,” reads the letter sent to federal decision-makers on the letterhead of the British Columbia Centre on Substance Use. 

Warren Buffett is well known as the most successful investor of all time. Buffett spent his formative years under the tutelage of Benjamin Graham, who is known today as the “father of value investing.”

Graham had seven criteria when considering a stock for purchase. Let’s review them and see whether or not Aphria Inc.(TSX:APH) passes the test.

As the number of Canadians who are prescribed medical marijuana grows and the federal government looks at a new legislative framework for its legalization and regulation, what does this mean for the workplace?

The federal government has announced plans to legalize marijuana with a target date of July 1, 2018. However, the possession of marijuana (cannabis) is still illegal in Canada under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, although it’s permitted for individuals with a medical prescription.

To keep pace with these changes, update your company’s alcohol and drug policies.

An interim report released on Wednesday has outlined what the legalization of marijuana might look like in New Brunswick.

Recommendations include a minimum age of 19 to buy and possess marijuana, regulating and selling cannabis through a crown corporation and a personal possession limit of 30 grams.

“Your government is working to ensure a successful approach to the legalization of recreational cannabis by prioritizing public health and safety concerns while maximizing the economic opportunities presented by this emerging sector,” said Health Minister Victor Boudreau in a press release.

Canopy Growth (WEED.TO) (TWMJF) has rallied 25% off its June lows and the shares have been trending higher ahead of the company’s fourth quarter and full-year earnings report.

Before the market opens on June 27th, Canopy will release its fourth quarter financial and operating results and we expect to see the company report strong numbers for the period.

Last week, Canopy Growth provided shareholders with a corporate update and the market responded very favorably to this update.

A Global Expansion Story

From Germany to Australia, this Canadian licensed medical marijuana producer continues to increase market share across the globe and we expect this trend to continue as management executes across the board.