LCRB Begins Notifying Licensees of Passed Minors as Agents Program Compliance Checks

The BC Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) has introduced a welcome update to its Minors as Agents Program (MAP): licensees will now be notified when they pass a compliance check. Previously, BC liquor and cannabis retailers were only contacted if an underage agent was served, leaving stores unaware of successful checks, and managers unable to provide the positive feedback and reinforcement that employees deserve.

This change reflects a long-standing request from licensees for LCRB to create a more positive culture in the industry, recognizing when licensee store employees follow procedures correctly and uphold liquor store ID requirements and cannabis store ID requirements. By taking this step, LCRB will help licensees improve staff morale, reinforce positive actions, and recognize proper ID verification practices – core elements of compliance.

The Minors as Agents Program plays a key role in protecting public safety by testing whether liquor and cannabis retail staff are properly checking ID. This policy change shows that the LCRB is listening to industry feedback and willing to build a collaborative relationships with licensees. Liquor and cannabis retailers can now gauge the effectiveness of their staff and training programs in the prevention of sales to minors.

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If you have questions about compliance, Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors can help. We provide compliance training, audits and handbooks that safeguard your liquor store or cannabis store license.