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By Canadian Press

Liberals’ cannabis possession pardon legislation now in force: Lametti

Aug 1, 2019 | 9:03 AM

MONTREAL — Long-awaited federal legislation to speed up and simplify the process of getting a pardon for simple cannabis possession is now in force.

Federal Justice Minister David Lametti made the announcement today in Montreal.

Under Bill C-93 tabled in March, people convicted of cannabis possession can apply online for a criminal pardon free of charge.

The law eliminates the waiting process associated with other pardon applications and waives the $631 application fee.

Lametti says the legislation is particularly significant for marginalized communities who have been disproportionately impacted by previous cannabis law enforcement.

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Before legalization last Oct. 17, people convicted of simple possession could face up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

The Canadian Press

by Canadian Press

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