Photo: A herb connoisseur displays a handful of recently purchased marijuana
in his home on Monday. The federal government plans to introduce a bill in
the House of Commons making simple possession a minor offence.

WHIFFS OF POT SMOKE ON HORIZON

Paraphernalia retailers expect users to exit closet if changes to law occur

One of Atlantic Canada's biggest retailers of marijuana-related merchandise
expects many users will come out of the closet if possessing small amounts
of weed is decriminalized.

"I think a lot of people would be surprised at how many people smoke
marijuana," said Colleen Banks, co-owner of Sweet Leaf Smoke Shop in
Halifax.

Justice Minister Martin Cauchon is expected to introduce legislation today
to ensure Canadians would no longer have a criminal record or face jail time
for simple possession of marijuana.

It would still be illegal to possess marijuana, even for personal use, but
possession of 15 grams or less would be a minor offence punishable by a fine
between $100 and $400, depending on the amount and whether it's a first
offence.

Ms. Banks said many people are talking about the possible change in the law
but that it wouldn't likely encourage more people to smoke up.

"Maybe if the law changes, the people who smoke it will not have to be so
paranoid."

However, she said any change in the law would unlikely have much impact on
her Isleville Street business.

"For one thing, many regular customers are already legitimate users, she
said.

"We have people with illnesses like cancer and MS who come in looking for
assistance. . . . They use marijuana to cope with the pain."

Ms. Banks's store is much like many so-called head shops found in most urban
centres.

The shelves are lined with colourful pipes and bongs (water pipes) and other
items popular with smokers, including rolling papers and incense.

Ms. Banks said the shop sticks to the premise that materials sold are used
for smoking tobacco.

"There is no talk about marijuana or any other drug in the store."

It also maintains a strict adults-only policy, she said.

"We are very strict. Photo ID is required."