BC Ombudsperson Investigating Provincial Cannabis Policies
Prince George, BC (September 15, 2025) – The BC Craft Farmers Co-Op (BCCFC) has confirmed to members and supporters that BC’s Ombudsperson has agreed to investigate the fairness of provincial government cannabis policies related to the unfair imposition of certain financial rules for BC craft cannabis farmers and independent cannabis retailers.
“During April’s BC Cannabis Summit, our volunteers talked with the BC Ombudsperson’s Office about complaints from members regarding BC cannabis policies,” said BCCFC President Tara Kirkpatrick. “Since the province has ignored calls for an independent, expert review of their cannabis programs, we appreciate the Ombudsperson’s interest in the issues we have raised related to direct cannabis delivery and other unfair practices.”
The Ombudsperson has confirmed plans to investigate three elements of BCCFC’s complaint:
- BC’s 15% direct cannabis delivery program fee
- BC’s practice of withholding payments to craft cannabis farmers for up to three months
- BC’s long-standing credit card prohibition on independent retailers
Unfair 15% Direct Cannabis Delivery Tax
BCCFC described how the implementation of BC’s direct cannabis delivery program – which provides craft farmers the prospect of bypassing BC’s central distribution system by selling cannabis directly to retain stores – imposed a 15% handling fee. BCCFC members have called the fee unfair because there is no corresponding provincial handling service or infrastructure to justify it. The fee should be removed so direct cannabis sales delivery can be more affordable. Current concerns about a BCGEU work disruption highlight this missed opportunity.
Withholding Payments to BC Craft Farmers
BCCFC described how the province required independent retail stores to pay up front for their cannabis, while withholding payments to craft farmers for up to 90 days. BCCFC members report this practice disproportionately impacts craft farmers. We also questioned why independent retail stores are not afforded the 90-day payment window enjoyed by BC government stores.
Credit Card Prohibition on Independent Retailers
BCCFC members described how BC prevents independent retailers from purchasing cannabis from the BC distribution centre via credit card. This puts these retailers at a disadvantage vis-à-vis government stores that seem to be purchasing cannabis from themselves.
The Ombudsperson is an officer of the BC Legislature and acts as an independent voice for fairness and accountability. The Ombudsperson ensures public sector organizations treat people fairly and follow the rules. They listen to and investigate complaints about provincial public sector organizations. Services are free and confidential.
On August 28, BC’s Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) provided 72-hour strike notice. It is entirely up to the BCGEU what form the strike action will take. They have committed to posting regular updates on the BC Cannabis Wholesale website at bccannabiswholesale.com. Questions should be directed to: communications@bcldb.com.
BCCFC was established in 2020 to represent craft farmers, processors, independent retailers, consumers, sector leaders and supporters to:
· Maintain BC’s international brand as one of the world’s top cannabis producers.
· Help BC’s craft and medical cannabis farmers transition to Canada’s new legal market.
· Ensure consumers and patients access fresh, locally grown cannabis in the legal market.
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Contact:
Tara Kirkpatrick, President
BC Craft Farmers Co-Op