Kanada. B.C.’s drug decriminalization experiment starts today. Toronto and other jurisdictions are watching

Toronto Public Health says it continues working with Health Canada on a revised version of its initial decriminalization proposal.

VANCOUVER—On Tuesday, British Columbia will begin a three-year decriminalization experiment, allowing drug users 18 and over to carry a up to 2.5 grams of opioids, such as heroin and fentanyl, as well as cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA.

It’s an experiment that’s likely to influence drug policy across Canada.

The approach is a “monumental shift” in drug policy, says Carolyn Bennett, the federal minister of mental health and addictions, adding that it’s meant to foster “trusting and supportive relationships” rather than criminalization.

“Through this exemption we will be able to reduce the stigma, the fear and shame that keep people who use drugs silent about their use,” she told a Vancouver news conference Monday. 

“And help more people access life-saving supports and treatment.”

She said that although there is still much to learn about the impacts of decriminalization, the hope is it will ultimately save lives. (Toronto Star, Kanada, 30.01.2023)

https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2023/01/30/bcs-decriminalization-experiement-is-about-to-begin-and-other-jurisdictions-are-watching.html