AGCO rolling out new measures to prevent underage access to alcohol and cannabis products
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is rolling out new measures to prevent underage access to alcohol and cannabis products in the province.
Activities conducted as part of the AGCO's Mystery Shop Program will expand to include a new role, called Youth Compliance Monitor. These monitors will work directly with AGCO Inspectors to identify retailers who permit minors to purchase age-restricted products. Youth Compliance Monitors are individuals aged 16-18 appointed by the AGCO Registrar with the acknowledgment of their parent or guardian.
Retailers who fail to check identification or sell age-restricted products to minors will be cited for a violation under the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019 (LLCA) or the Cannabis Licence Act, 2018 (CLA). The AGCO's Schedule of Monetary Penalties permits monetary penalties of up to $100,000 for selling cannabis or alcohol to minors. In addition to monetary penalties, licensees can face additional enforcement actions including suspension and even revocation of their licence for the most serious or repeated violations.
The LLCA and CLA provide the AGCO with the authority to hire minors for the purpose of monitoring compliance with the Acts, regulations, and the Registrar's Standards. The addition of Youth Compliance Monitors provides an effective tool for the AGCO to ensure retailers are taking the necessary steps to prevent the sale of alcohol and cannabis to minors.
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"Protecting youth from the harms of alcohol and cannabis consumption is more than just a regulatory responsibility--it is a profound moral duty. This enhanced program sends a clear message that all retailers are responsible for prioritizing the health and safety of youth and it reinforces the AGCO's commitment to holding bad actors accountable,” said Dr. Karin Schnarr, chief executive officer and registrar, AGCO
Under the CLA, cannabis retailers are mandated to request identification from anyone appearing under 25 and must ensure they are at least 19 years old before entry or sale. Similarly, liquor licensees must verify identification for any person who appears under 19 years of age prior to any sale or service under the LLCA.
