SHARING THE COST OF CANNABIS LEGALIZATION

  Legalization of cannabis is upon us in Canada. It marks a potentially massive shift in how our society operates, touching upon so many institutions of Canadian life. From public safety to retail services to transit and labour law, legal cannabis will require significant and trusting co-ordination among all orders of government.
  Local governments are the order of government closest to Canadians’ daily lives and as a result, municipalities are on the front lines of cannabis legalization. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities, whose members represent over 90 per cent of Canadians, has been helping communities get ready by providing tools and engaging our various partners. But municipalities cannot do it alone. An important element of a safe and effective rollout of cannabis legalization will require a clear framework for the sharing of costs that come with this new policy.
  Much has been said about the revenue potential of cannabis sales, but too often we forget about the significant cost. Legalization has operational and cost implications for as many as 17 municipal departments. And as of today, in many communities, local taxpayers will be on the hook for these bills.