Amendments would let Manitoba cannabis stores drop window coverings for safety

Manitoba's cannabis stores may soon be able to remove window coverings for safety reasons, according to new amendments to the provincial Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Act. The legislation aims to increase visibility from outside the stores and ensure workers are not secluded from public view. Matt Wiebe, the minister of justice, emphasized that the safety of Manitobans is a top priority.

The amendments also propose changes to the act that would require mandatory minimum staffing levels during certain hours to prevent workers from being alone during times of heightened risk for violence. The Winnipeg Police Service is currently investigating a recent sexual assault case at a Winnipeg cannabis shop, as well as offensive and hateful posters displayed at a nearby home.

Additionally, provincial justice officials are trying to seize a drug den on Dominion Street that has been associated with criminal activity, violence, and disorder for several years. Winnipeg mayoral candidate Mike Vogiatzakis accused rival Kevin Klein of trying to pressure him out of the election, but both candidates continued to point fingers after the allegation was made public.