Ben Lobb, MP - Huron—Bruce

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strong oppose

Lobb Defends Pot Law

Friday, February 22, 2013 3:13 PM by Fadi Didi

Lobb says new law will save taxpayers money, but illegal for patients to grow it.

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(Regional) - The MP for Huron-Bruce says a new pot law would save taxpayers more than it would cost the people directly affected by it.

Personal-use marijuana production licenses are set to be terminated next year -- making it illegal for patients to grow their own pot.

MP Ben Lobb was visited by demonstrators on Thursday protesting the upcoming marijuana law.

He says there are two aspects to consider with the new law: the expense to the taxpayer, and the public safety of the person growing the pot.

Lobb cites mould and home safety as reasons why restricting the personal growth of pot is beneficial to Canadians.

He says -- under the program -- Canadians will still be able to access their medical marijuana, but grown in a controlled environment rather than their own homes.

Health Canada estimates the law could drive up the cost of controlled marijuana, costing patients an additional $166 million over 10 years.

Lobb expects the new law could actually save taxpayer dollars -- up to 120 million dollars a year in next five to six years.

He points to the several organizations who support the law, including the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, and Health Canada.