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The Canadian Government Has Collected Over $1 Billion in Cannabis Taxes Since Legalization Began in 2018

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Canadian cannabis tax revenue

Since recreational use of cannabis became legal in Canada in 2018, the federal government of that country has imposed a total duty on cannabis products of over 1 billion Canadian dollars ($740 million). Executives expect that the government would ease the tax and excise regime it imposes on the sector as employment and financial losses rise as the milestone is reached.

 

Around CA$862.3 million in total duty on cannabis products was levied by the federal government between the 2018–19 and 2020–21 fiscal years, the majority of which was distributed to the provinces and territories, according to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

 

Similar data for the 2021–22 fiscal year has not yet been released by the CRA.

 

However, the most current official accounts, which outline the government’s costs and income, reveal that the federal government received revenue from the cannabis levy worth 160.2 million Canadian dollars that year, bringing the total duty since 2018 to at least 1.02 billion Canadian dollars.

 

SMASHING $1 BILLION MARK

 

Since the public accounts figure for 2021–22 excludes, among other things, duty that the federal government collects and distributes to the provinces and territories, the total duty since 2018 is probably substantially higher.

 

For previous fiscal years, the CRA assessed the following total duty on cannabis:

 

$514 million Canadian dollars in 2020–21.

$256.7 million Canadian dollars in 2019–20.

$91.6 million Canadian dollars in 2018–19.

The figures include additional duty that is only applicable in some jurisdictions as well as additional duty that is assessed by the federal government and distributed to the provinces and territories.

 

Since sales have risen from 2018, the federal government’s overall duty assessed on cannabis items has increased.

 

The cannabis tax’s own earnings for the federal government were as follows:

 

For the years 2021–2022, 160.2 million Canadian dollars.

$108,9 million Canadian dollars in 2020–21.

in 2019–20, $52 million Canadian dollars.

$ 18.3 million Canadian dollars in 2018–19.

 

The revenue service identified the amount of the “extra” cannabis duty and a “adjustment” to that increased duty as CA$403.3 million of the CA$514 million in assessments made by the CRA for the 2020–21 fiscal year.

 

The CRA explained the “additional” duty as the cannabis excise duty that the federal government agreed to split with the territories and provinces from recreational marijuana sales in their respective areas in an email to MJBizDaily.

 

In exchange for sharing 75% of the money it earns while keeping 25% for itself, the federal government agreed.

 

The excise tax levied by Canada on dried cannabis produced by producers is CA$1 per gram or 10% of the gram’s price, whichever is higher.

 

In some places, there is an additional excise tax on top of the federal tax. These sums are referred to as a “adjustment” to the increased cannabis duty by the CRA.

 

According to the agency, all funds gathered under this fictitious adjustment are given back to the relevant province or territory.

 

The distinction between the “extra” duty and the “adjustment” to the additional cannabis duty is not made in the CRA tables.

 

When provincial and federal taxes are included, it is estimated that the sale of cannabis to governments in Canada brought in CA$1.6 billion in the fiscal year 2021–2022.

 

Included in that revenue are:

 

Province-owned alcohol and marijuana regulatory bodies reported net income of CA$300 million.

“Total taxes” and other sources of income brought in CA$1.3 billion.

What’s included in the CA$1.3 billion?

A federal excise tax of CA$200 million.

From additional provincial or territorial revenue sources including provincial excise taxes, CA$600 million.

retail sales taxes of CA $500 million.

 

MAJORITY OF DUTY FROM FLOWER

 

The majority of the duty imposed by the federal government was on dried/fresh cannabis, when broken down by product category.

 

Duty imposed on dried or fresh cannabis made up 79.2% of the total for the fiscal years over the period 2018–21.

 

A total of 16.5% of the charge was made up of cannabis extracts, including oil.

 

The conclusion of the 2019–20 fiscal year saw the nationwide rollout of cannabis edibles, but the duty rate did not begin to increase significantly until then.

 

From CA$1.2 million in 2019–20 to almost CA$6.5 million in 2020–21, the total duty assessed on edibles increased.

 

Duty imposed on topical cannabis products totaled CA$973,000 in the fiscal year 2020–21.

 

The CRA did not reveal the duty paid on cannabis plants and seeds in the aforementioned year due to “confidentiality reasons.”

 

Nonetheless, the amount did not go over CA$436,000.

 

IMPACT OF HIGH CANNABIS TAXES ON THE CANADIAN INDUSTRY AND CONSUMERS

 

The Canadian government’s high cannabis taxes have been a substantial source of income for the nation, but they have also had a big effect on the cannabis market and users. Legal cannabis is frequently far more expensive than illegal cannabis because to the hefty taxes, making it difficult for enterprises to compete with the dark market. As a result, despite the fact that cannabis is now legal for recreational use, many Canadians continue to buy it from unreliable vendors.

 

Some people have found it difficult to afford legal cannabis as a result of the hefty taxes placed on cannabis goods, which have also increased consumer prices. Because they cannot afford to buy legal cannabis at the current costs, people who depend on cannabis for medical purposes are frequently driven to buy from sources that are illegal.

 

Many industry participants have demanded a reduction in cannabis taxes or at the very least a reorganization of the current tax structure in response to these problems. Some have argued that a lower tax rate would make it simpler for legitimate enterprises to compete with the black market and would, eventually, result in more money for the government. Others have recommended that cannabis tax money be used to fund educational and harm reduction initiatives to help combat drug use’s negative consequences.

 

BOTTOM LINE

 

Since cannabis was legalized in Canada in 2018, the government has levied over $1 billion CAD in taxes and customs, but the hefty taxes have made legal cannabis more expensive than the illegal market, which has an effect on the sector and consumers. Due to the financial damages brought on by the epidemic, the government may think about lowering the tax code.

 

CANADIAN CANNABIS TAX, READ ON…

CANNABIS TAX HEADLINES

CANNABIS NEWS HEADLINES – THE CANADIAN CANNABIS TAX FUND!



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How Do You Stop Lab-Shopping for the Highest THC Results?

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single lab test for cannabis THC results

In a decisive move aimed at bolstering consumer safety and ensuring the integrity of cannabis products, Massachusetts regulators have mandated that all cannabis products must undergo testing at a single, licensed laboratory. This new regulation comes in response to the growing issue of “lab shopping,” where cannabis producers seek favorable testing results by sending their products to multiple laboratories. The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) announced this significant regulatory change after extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, public health officials, and consumer advocates.

 

This article explores the implications of this regulation for the cannabis industry, consumers, and public health. It also examines the broader context of cannabis regulation in Massachusetts and the potential impact of this decision on the future of the state’s cannabis market.

 

Understanding Lab Shopping

 

 What is Lab Shopping?

 

Lab shopping refers to the practice where cannabis producers send their products to various testing laboratories in search of the most favorable results. Producers may choose labs based on their reputation for leniency or their history of providing positive results. This behavior can lead to significant discrepancies in product safety assessments and quality assurance.

 

The Risks Associated with Lab Shopping

 

1. Consumer Health Risks: The primary concern surrounding lab shopping is the potential risk it poses to consumer health. Inconsistent testing results mean that products containing harmful contaminants—such as pesticides, heavy metals, or mold—may be sold without proper scrutiny. This can lead to serious health issues for consumers who unknowingly purchase tainted products.

 

2. Market Integrity: Lab shopping undermines the integrity of the legal cannabis market. When consumers cannot trust that products have been tested rigorously and uniformly, it erodes confidence in legal cannabis sales and can drive customers back to illicit markets where safety standards are nonexistent.

 

3. Regulatory Challenges: For regulators like the CCC, lab shopping complicates enforcement efforts. It becomes increasingly difficult to monitor compliance when producers can easily switch labs to obtain favorable results, making it challenging to ensure that all products meet established safety standards.

 

The Regulatory Response

 

The Role of the Cannabis Control Commission (CCC)

 

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission is tasked with regulating the state’s cannabis industry. As part of its mandate, the CCC has worked diligently to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework that governs various aspects of cannabis production and sale. However, as the industry has evolved, so too have the challenges associated with ensuring product safety and quality.

 

In light of growing concerns about lab shopping and its implications for public health and safety, the CCC recognized the need for a more robust regulatory framework. After extensive discussions with industry stakeholders and public health officials, the commission concluded that a single-lab testing requirement was necessary to address these issues effectively.

 

Implementation of Single-Lab Testing

 

In late 2023, following thorough deliberation and stakeholder engagement, the CCC announced its new regulation mandating that all cannabis products must be tested by a single licensed laboratory before they can be sold to consumers. This decision aims to achieve several key objectives:

 

  • Standardize Testing Protocols: By requiring that all products be tested by a single lab, regulators can ensure that all products are subject to consistent testing standards. This uniformity is crucial for maintaining product quality and safety across the market.

 

  • Enhance Accountability: A single-lab requirement makes it easier for regulators to hold laboratories accountable for their testing practices. If discrepancies arise in testing results, it will be clear which laboratory conducted the tests, facilitating more straightforward investigations.

 

  • Improve Consumer Confidence: With consistent testing results across all products, consumers can feel more secure in their purchases. This increased confidence is vital for fostering a healthy legal cannabis market in Massachusetts.

 

 Implications of Single-Lab Testing

 

For Producers

 

1. Increased Accountability: Producers will need to establish relationships with specific laboratories and ensure that their products meet stringent quality standards before submission for testing. This shift will require producers to invest more in quality control measures throughout their production processes.

 

2. Potential Cost Implications: While single-lab testing may streamline processes for some producers, it could also lead to increased costs if producers are required to pay higher fees for comprehensive testing services. Smaller producers may find it particularly challenging to absorb these costs.

 

3. Adaptation Period: Producers will need time to adjust their operations and supply chains to comply with this new regulation. This may involve reevaluating partnerships with existing labs or investing in new quality control measures.

 

4. Impact on Product Development: The requirement for single-lab testing may also influence how producers develop new products. With fewer laboratories available for testing, producers may need to plan their product launches more carefully and allow additional time for testing processes.

 

For Laboratories

 

1. Increased Demand for Services: Licensed laboratories may experience an increase in demand as producers consolidate their testing needs with fewer facilities. This could lead to higher revenues for labs but also increased pressure on them to maintain high-quality standards amidst growing workloads.

 

2. Need for Enhanced Capabilities: Laboratories will need to ensure they have the capacity and technology necessary to handle increased volumes of samples while maintaining rigorous quality control measures. This may require investments in new equipment or hiring additional staff.

 

3. Regulatory Compliance: Laboratories will face heightened scrutiny from regulators as they become key players in ensuring product safety. They will need to demonstrate compliance with all relevant regulations and maintain transparent practices regarding their testing methodologies.

 

 For Consumers

 

1. Improved Product Safety: The primary benefit for consumers is enhanced safety assurance. With standardized testing protocols in place, consumers can trust that cannabis products have been thoroughly vetted for contaminants and potency before reaching store shelves.

 

2. Greater Transparency: As part of this regulatory shift, there may be increased transparency regarding testing results and laboratory practices. Consumers will have access to clearer information about what goes into their cannabis products, empowering them to make informed choices.

 

3. Potential Price Increases: While improved safety is paramount, there is a possibility that compliance costs could be passed on to consumers through higher prices for cannabis products. Producers may need to adjust their pricing structures in response to increased operational costs associated with single-lab testing.

 

Cannabis Regulation in Massachusetts

 

 Historical Overview

 

Massachusetts was one of the first states in New England to legalize recreational cannabis use following the passage of Question 4 in 2016. The legalization marked a significant shift in public policy and opened up a new economic sector within the state. However, as with any emerging industry, challenges quickly arose—particularly concerning product safety and quality assurance.

 

Existing Regulatory Framework

 

Prior to the introduction of single-lab testing regulations, Massachusetts had established a comprehensive regulatory framework governing various aspects of cannabis production and sale:

 

 

 

 

Despite these measures, lab shopping highlighted gaps in enforcement and compliance that necessitated further action from regulators.

 

 Industry Reactions

 

Support from Public Health Advocates

 

Public health advocates have largely welcomed the CCC’s decision to implement single-lab testing as a crucial step toward safeguarding public health by ensuring that all cannabis products meet consistent safety standards. Many believe this regulation will help prevent contaminated or substandard products from reaching consumers while bolstering trust in legal cannabis sales.

 

Dr. Emily Thompson, a public health expert at Harvard University, stated, “This regulation is essential for protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with contaminated cannabis products.”

 

Concerns from Industry Stakeholders

 

Conversely, some industry stakeholders have expressed concerns about potential drawbacks:

 

1. Operational Challenges: Smaller producers may find it difficult to navigate relationships with larger laboratories or face delays in getting their products tested due to increased demand at those facilities.

  

2. Innovation Stifling: Critics argue that requiring single-lab testing could stifle innovation within the industry by limiting producers’ options for exploring different testing methodologies or technologies offered by various labs.

 

3. Market Dynamics: There are worries that this regulation could create monopolistic tendencies within laboratory services if only a few labs dominate the market due to increased demand from producers seeking reliable test results.

 

4. Impact on Small Businesses: Small-scale cultivators might struggle more than larger companies due to limited resources and access to high-quality labs capable of meeting stringent requirements without significantly raising costs.

 

 Future Outlook

 

As Massachusetts implements this new regulation mandating single-lab testing for all cannabis products sold within its borders, it sets an important precedent that other states may consider as they navigate similar challenges within their own burgeoning cannabis markets.

 

Potential National Implications

 

The decision by Massachusetts regulators could influence national discussions around cannabis regulation as other states look toward creating frameworks that prioritize consumer safety while fostering industry growth:

 

  1. Increased Interest from Other States: States grappling with similar issues related to lab shopping may look closely at Massachusetts’ approach as they develop their own regulations.

 

  1. Collaboration Among States: As states continue legalizing recreational marijuana use across the country, there may be opportunities for collaboration on best practices regarding product safety standards and laboratory oversight.

 

  1. Federal Considerations: With ongoing discussions about federal legalization of marijuana gaining traction nationally—especially amid shifting political landscapes—regulatory models like those emerging from Massachusetts could serve as templates for future federal guidelines governing cannabis production and sale across state lines.

 

 Conclusion

 

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s mandate for single-lab testing represents a pivotal shift in evaluating cannabis products for safety and quality assurance within one of the nation’s most dynamic legal marijuana markets. By targeting the issue of lab shopping, this regulation prioritizes consumer protection, aiming to enhance public health outcomes and rebuild confidence in the safety of legalized cannabis products. While the transition poses challenges for producers adapting operational processes and laboratories scaling their capabilities, the regulation seeks to balance fostering innovation in an evolving industry with rigorous oversight mechanisms. As Massachusetts refines its regulatory framework, balancing the interests of regulators and profit-driven stakeholders, collaboration will be essential to thriving under these new guidelines. This change not only advances the state’s cannabis sector but also sets a potential standard for other states to ensure safe consumption and responsible business practices in the growing marijuana industry.

 

LAB SHOPPING FOR HIGH THC RESULTS? READ ON…

CANNABIS LAB SHOPPING FOR THC

LAB SHOPPING FOR THC RESULTS- THE DIRTY SECRET IN CANNABIS!



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Happy Holidays from The Canna Law Blog

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Wishing all of our readers, along with friends and families, the very best this holiday season.

Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, Festivus, or something else, we hope you can kick back and enjoy this wonderful time of the year.

The post Happy Holidays from The Canna Law Blog appeared first on Harris Sliwoski LLP.



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5 Cannabis Christmas Recipes to Try This Holiday Season at Home or the Office Party!

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Ah yes, it’s that magical time of year again when Ganja Clause slides down the chimney to visit all the good little stoners. The lights are twinkling, the fire is crackling, and the sweet aroma of cannabis-infused treats fills the air. As someone who’s spent years experimenting with cannabis cuisine, I’ve learned that the holidays present the perfect opportunity to elevate traditional recipes to new heights.

To help make your holidaze more “dazey,” I’ve crafted five festive recipes that combine seasonal favorites with our favorite herb. These dishes aren’t just about getting high – they’re about creating memorable experiences and new traditions. But before we dive in, I need to emphasize something crucial: dosing is always important, and you should NEVER give these recipes to anyone without their explicit consent. While sharing is caring, tricking someone into consuming cannabis is not only unethical but potentially illegal. Always clearly label your infused treats and keep them safely away from children and unsuspecting guests.

With those important notes out of the way, let’s get into these magical recipes that will make your holiday season extra special.

Look, we all know eggnog is a holiday staple, but why not kick it up a notch? This cannabis-infused version will have you feeling jolly in no time. Just remember – this isn’t your grandma’s recipe (unless your grandma is really cool).

What You’ll Need:

  • 4 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative if that’s your jam)

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for you plant-based folks)

  • 6 egg yolks (fresh is best, trust me)

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 1 tbsp cannabis tincture or cannabis-infused syrup

The Magic Process:

  1. Start by heating your milk and cream in a saucepan. You want it hot but not boiling – we’re making eggnog, not scrambled eggs.

  2. In a separate bowl, whisk those egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla until they’re well combined and looking smooth.

  3. Here’s the tricky part: slowly (and I mean SLOWLY) add the hot milk mixture to your egg mixture while whisking constantly. If you dump it all in at once, you’ll end up with sweet scrambled eggs, and nobody wants that.

  4. Pour everything back into your saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

  5. Remove from heat, stir in that nutmeg, and let it cool a bit before adding your cannabis tincture or syrup.

  6. Chill thoroughly before serving.

Pro tip: Start with a small serving – this stuff can creep up on you!

Want to elevate your holiday meal? This gravy will take your feast to new heights. It’s perfect for drowning those mashed potatoes or smothering that turkey.

The Goods:

  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup cannabis butter (cannabutter)

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary work great)

The How-To:

  1. Melt your cannabutter over medium heat in a saucepan. Watch it carefully – burnt butter is not the vibe we’re going for.

  2. Whisk in the flour to create your roux. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste.

  3. Now, slowly pour in your stock while whisking like your life depends on it. No lumps allowed!

  4. Add your seasonings and herbs.

  5. Keep stirring and simmering until it reaches your desired thickness.

  6. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed (before you get too lifted).

Remember: Label this clearly! You don’t want Aunt Martha accidentally pouring this all over her plate without knowing what’s up.

Forget that canned stuff – this homemade cranberry sauce with a special twist will have everyone at the table asking for seconds (though you might want to limit them to just one serving).

The Ingredients:

Getting Saucy:

  1. Toss your cranberries, OJ, and sugar into a saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Let it cook until those cranberries start popping like tiny little fireworks (about 10 minutes).

  3. Once it’s thickened up nicely, remove from heat.

  4. Here comes the fun part – stir in your cannabis-infused honey or tincture.

  5. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pro tip: Make two batches – one regular and one infused. Just make sure to label them clearly!

These aren’t your regular sweet potatoes – they’re elevated sweet potatoes. Perfect for getting baked while getting baked.

What You Need:

  • 4 large sweet potatoes

  • 1/2 cup cannabis butter (cannabutter)

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

  • Salt to taste

  • Marshmallows (optional, but highly recommended)

The Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Bake those sweet potatoes until they’re tender (about an hour).

  3. Once they’re cool enough to handle, peel and mash them up.

  4. Mix in your cannabutter, brown sugar, and spices.

  5. Transfer to a baking dish.

  6. If you’re feeling extra, top with marshmallows.

  7. Bake for another 20-30 minutes until everything’s golden brown and gorgeous.

Warning: These are dangerously delicious – pace yourself!

This warm, spicy cider will lift your spirits in more ways than one. Perfect for those chilly winter nights.

The Essentials:

The Process:

  1. Pour your cider into a large pot.

  2. Add your cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices.

  3. Heat until it just starts to bubble, then reduce to a simmer.

  4. Add your cannabis-infused maple syrup (or add tincture to individual cups for controlled dosing).

  5. Let everything mingle and get cozy for about 20 minutes.

  6. Serve it up warm with an orange slice or cinnamon stick garnish.

Pro tip: Keep a non-infused batch warming for designated drivers and non-partaking guests.

Remember folks, the key to a successful Dankmas feast is clear labeling and careful dosing. Nothing ruins a holiday gathering quite like someone getting unexpectedly zooted. Happy cooking, and may your holidays be dank and delightful!

There you have it, folks – five unique ways to spice up your Dankmas traditions and make the season truly memorable. As someone who’s hosted many cannabis-friendly holiday gatherings, I can’t stress enough the importance of starting slow with these recipes. Edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to fully kick in, and you definitely don’t want to overdo it during family dinner. I strongly recommend doing a test run with different dosages before the big day to find your sweet spot.

What I love most about these recipes is that they offer a fantastic alternative for those looking to skip the traditional alcohol-heavy holiday celebrations. Cannabis provides a more natural way to unwind and connect with loved ones during this special time of year. Plus, you won’t have to worry about a hangover the next morning!

Remember to celebrate responsibly, be open about what’s infused and what isn’t, and most importantly, enjoy the magic of the season. Happy Dankmas to all, and to all a good height!

 

MORE DANKMAS STORIES, READ ON…

GANJA CLAUSE

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS BY GANJA CLAUSE!



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