Nova Scotia Approves Mi’kmaq-Owned Cannabis Retail Stores on Reserves
Nova Scotia's new regulations enable Mi’kmaq communities to open legal cannabis stores on reserves, addressing illegal sales concerns and boosting local economies
Key Points
- 1Nova Scotia allows Mi’kmaq cannabis retail stores on reserves
- 2Mi’kmaq bands can authorize sales through agreements with the liquor corporation
- 3Move addresses illegal cannabis sales concerns in Mi’kmaq communities
- 4Cannabis sales at provincial outlets totaled $121 million in 2023-24
- 5New rules empower Mi’kmaq communities economically
In a groundbreaking move, the Nova Scotia government has introduced new regulations permitting Mi’kmaq communities to establish legal cannabis retail stores on their reserves. Previously, the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation was the sole authorized cannabis retailer in the province, operating 50 outlets, including one on the Eskasoni reserve in Cape Breton. Under the new rules, Mi’kmaq bands or band-owned corporations can become authorized sellers by entering agreements with the liquor corporation, ensuring that all cannabis sold is sourced through this official channel
The decision to allow Mi’kmaq-owned cannabis stores comes in response to concerns raised by Mi’kmaq leaders about the prevalence of illegal cannabis sales in their communities. By providing a legal avenue for cannabis sales, the government aims to address these issues while empowering Mi’kmaq communities economically. The provincial Finance Department reported that cannabis sales at liquor corporation outlets reached $121 million in the 2023-24 fiscal year, underscoring the significant economic opportunity this new regulation presents for Mi’kmaq communities