Manitoba eyes new regulations for delivery of liquor and cannabis

The Manitoba government is moving proposed amendments to regulations under the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Act to a 45-day public consultation period, Justice Minister Cameron Friesen announced today.

“New regulations would shift obligation and responsibility from restaurants to third-party delivery companies, where it belongs,” said Friesen. “With the delivery industry growing, we want to make sure that liquor and cannabis products are delivered safely and responsibly.”

Proposed amendments to existing regulations under the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Act would establish a new licence category that would authorize third-party companies to deliver regulated products, such as liquor and cannabis, to customers on behalf of other licensees. Until now, the liability was placed on the dining room, lounge or retailers, who use these third-party delivery companies and would be required to accept liability if that third-party delivery company does not comply with requirements.

The proposed legislation would also enable the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority (LGCA) to develop a minor agent program that would enhance its capacity to enforce breaches related to selling or serving regulated products to minors and young people. Agents under the program would attempt to purchase regulated products and allow the LGCA to monitor licensees’ compliance with prohibitions on under-age sales.

Through proposed legislation, LGCA would be provided the tools needed to protect minors and enforce breaches related to selling or serving regulated products to minors and young people.

To learn more about the proposed regulations and provide feedback, visit the Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal at https://reg.gov.mb.ca.

(Province of MB News Release)