Mi'kmaw bands draft their own cannabis law amid provincial crackdown.

Mi'kmaw chiefs in Nova Scotia are developing their own cannabis law while the province has announced an enforcement crackdown and reported more than 100 unlicensed outlets.

Mi'kmaw chiefs in Nova Scotia are developing their own law and regulations for retail cannabis sales on reserves. The work follows a provincial announcement of an enforcement crackdown and a report of more than 100 unlicensed cannabis outlets. Many of those outlets are on reserve land, and some Mi'kmaq leaders say they feel targeted; the province denies targeting. Membertou and other bands have discussed a common Mi'kmaw cannabis law, and relations between some chiefs and the provincial government are described as strained. Key points: - The province announced an enforcement crackdown and said there are more than 100 unlicensed cannabis outlets in Nova Scotia. - Many outlets are reported to be on reserve land; some Mi'kmaq leaders feel they are being targeted, and the province denies that claim. - Mi'kmaw chiefs, including Membertou, are drafting their own cannabis law and have discussed a common provincial approach; Membertou has worked on a law since 2021. - The Justice Minister said the province will continue enforcing the Cannabis Control Act and raised safety concerns; the Membertou chief said there is no evidence presented to support those concerns. Summary: The situation highlights differing views about legal authority and safety oversight between Mi'kmaw chiefs and the provincial government. Undetermined at this time.