The Ontario Broker - April 2019 - 10

FEELING THE EFFECTS OF
CANNABIS SIX MONTHS IN
BY TAHNEE MALAZDREWICZ, MARKETING & EVENTS, IBAO

JENN GROEN
Insurance Broker
Locke Insurance Brokers

T

he world of insurance hit a new high last October when a
new industry bloomed out of cannabis legalization. With
the province's regulations and laws constantly changing,
it's never been more crucial for brokers to stay current on
this growing industry. We spoke with four brokers about
their experience over the last six months and how they've
tackled client questions and concerns.

WHAT'S BEEN THE BIGGEST INSURANCE CHALLENGE
SINCE LEGALIZATION?

TAMMY MULROONEY
Commercial Account Manager
Hunt & Dopson Insurance Group

JG: I had a landlord with a Rented Dwelling policy who had tenants that were
using and growing cannabis. The risk hazard level increased, so we had to
respond accordingly.
TM: The biggest challenge has been reading new wordings from different
insurers.

SAMUEL OFF
Protection Specialist
National Truck League

SO: My clients are commercial trucking companies. The Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Administration requires all commercial drivers to be drug
tested, and cannabis is still prohibited for commercial truckers who travel
to the US. With legalization, my clients are required to increase awareness
amongst potential drivers and be advised that additional scrutiny may be
required.
DR: On a day-to-day basis, there are no real challenges at this point. Looking
ahead-I've noticed there's a lack of continuity among our markets with
respect to their underwriting rules around cannabis.
WHAT'S THE MOST COMMON QUESTION CLIENTS ASK?

DAN REITH
Principal Broker
Reith & Associates Insurance and
Financial Services

APRIL 2019

JG: I've had several clients ask what the effects will be to their auto insurance
policy if they're pulled over and issued a ticket for detection of cannabis. I
respond that if any conviction is found on your MVR, your policy will be
rated accordingly.

10

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The Ontario Broker - April 2019

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