Saskatchewan government is expanding its street weapons legislation to target illicit drugs and dangerous materials like hypodermic needles in public spaces.
On Monday, the province introduced amendments to The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act that would add fentanyl, methamphetamine, and hypodermic needles to the list of items regulated under the law. Previously, the Act only applied to traditional street weapons such as large knives, bear spray, and machetes.
Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said the move is part of a broader effort to make communities safer.
“We are dedicated to creating safer communities for all Saskatchewan residents,” McLeod said. “This legislation represents a pivotal step in ensuring that public spaces remain places of enjoyment and comfort, free from intimidation, violence caused by street weapons, and illicit drugs.”
The government said the new measures reflect the serious risks associated with the public use and trafficking of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Both substances have played a central role in the province’s ongoing addictions crisis.
Once passed, the law will allow municipalities and First Nations to opt into regulations controlling the possession, storage, and transport of the newly added items. It’s expected to come into force this summer once the necessary regulations are finalized.
Officials stressed the legislation includes exemptions for legitimate use, such as medical needs, food preparation, or wilderness protection.
The changes are part of a larger government strategy to tackle crime and drugs. That includes $11.9 million to fund 100 new municipal police officers, $2.7 million to add 14 Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) investigators, and $2.5 million over three years for the Saskatchewan Police College.
The province is also updating The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act to expand the tools available to deal with problem properties.