Looking for reefers: Border officials will be on guard if pot bill passes

OTTAWA, (Jan. 21, 2004) — As if suspected terrorism and mad cows weren’t already doing a good enough job of creating border problems for U.S.-bound Canadians. Now U.S. Ambassador Paul Cellucci is warning that incoming legislation easing rules for marijuana possession will make younger travellers to the U.S. targets for border authorities.

Cellucci told Canadian Press today that a proposed law that decriminalizes penalties for pot possession of up to 15 grams will increase scrutiny for people crossing into the U.S., unless Canada can dispel the perception that marijuana is easier to attain on the north side of the border. The Bush administration maintains the new law will increase marijuana trafficking between the two countries.

While the increased surveillance won’t strain border traffic and trade to a crawl, Cellucci did indicate younger drivers and travellers — whether they’re Canadian or U.S. citizens — will be prime targets for U.S. Customs and Immigration officers. “Their antenna will be up looking for those trying to bring these drugs into the United States,” he told CP.

Prime Minister Paul Martin has said he will re-introduce the legislation originally drafted by the former Chretien government. However, it’s still unclear whether changes will be made to the bill.

Cellucci indicated scrutiny may ease if Canada considered including criminal penalties for more than one conviction, for possession near schools or possession while operating a vehicle, instead of simply decriminalizing possession under 15 grams.

— From Canadian Press