Abstract
The upcoming legalization of cannabis in Canada poses several challenges in which each province will have to respond with effective regulation. Studies show that policies alone have little impact on use rates. However, regulatory approaches and modalities seem important to reduce the possible negative consequences that may result from legalization. Although no framework system offers a perfect solution to the issues surrounding the use and sale of cannabis, it seems essential to implement a legalization model based on a public health perspective. The modalities of this model will have to ensure a compromise between restricted access to cannabis and the maintenance of a sufficient supply to counter the illegal market. We recommend controlling the legal cannabis market through the following: a state monopoly, competitive pricing in relation to the illicit market, a sales tax modeled on the THC content, the implementation of a controlled number of points of sale of small surface area and density, a legal age of purchase from the age of majority, and a complete ban on the promotion and advertising of cannabis products, as well as massive funding for prevention and research.