Vancouver Sun: Pharmacy retailers threaten legal action if tobacco ban imposed in B.C.

VANCOUVER, B.C. — Top executives of several pharmacy retailers in British Columbia, including London Drugs, Safeway and Rexall, are threatening to take legal action against the College of Pharmacists of B.C. if tries to block tobacco sales in their stores on the grounds that the college would be exceeding its powers and jurisdiction, the Vancouver Sun reported.



British Columbia is the only Canadian province that allows tobacco to be sold in stores that have pharmacies. According to the Vancouver Sun article, the college is a long-time supporter of tobacco-free pharmacy but has not yet passed a ban.



The college reportedly discussed the issue at length in late spring during a board meeting and indicated that it would seek a legal opinion.



Retail executives have since issued a letter, according to the Vancouver Sun, threatening to take legal action if tobacco sales are banned.