In order to “reduce the shame and fear associated with substance use,” British Columbia will decriminalize personal possession of various illicit drugs for three years..The federal government made the announcement Tuesday and, beginning early next year, British Columbians can carry up to 2.5 grams of opioids, meth, cocaine, and more, without fear of criminal penalties..The exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) will be in effect from Jan. 31, 2023 to Jan. 31, 2026, throughout the entire province..BC is the first Canadian province to receive an exemption under the CDSA..“The shocking number of lives lost to the overdose crisis requires bold actions and significant policy change,” said Carolyn Bennet, federal minister of mental health and addictions Tuesday..“Eliminating criminal penalties for those carrying small amounts of illicit drugs for personal use will reduce stigma and harm and provide another tool for British Columbia to end the overdose crisis.”.Bennet says she has “thoroughly” reviewed and carefully considered the move’s implications..According to a report from the BC Coroners Service released early May, the month of March this year marked the 18th consecutive month with more than 150 drug deaths — putting the province back on track for another record-breaking year..Last year saw a total of 2,236 illicit drug deaths..The overdose crisis was declared a public health emergency in BC in 2016..As for the new three year “exemption,” the province wants to be clear the policy is different from legalization, as the substances remain illegal. Adults carrying 2.5 grams or less will no longer be arrested or have their stash confiscated..“Substance use is a public health issue, not a criminal one,” said Sheila Malcolmson, BC’s minister of mental health and addictions.."By decriminalizing people who use drugs, we will break down the stigma that stops people from accessing life-saving support and services.”
