British Columbia has unexpectedly ended its groundbreaking trial on decriminalizing certain illegal drug due to rising public dissatisfaction and increased disorder across the province. Premier David Eby announced on Friday that he had requested the federal government to reinstate the ban on public drug use, marking an abrupt halt to what had been Canada’s first major test in assessing the impact of decriminalization.
“Our top priority is the safety of our people. While we extend our compassion to those battling addiction, the disorder on our streets that compromises the safety of our communities is unacceptable,” Eby stated.
Launched in 2023, the initiative aimed to distinguish between decriminalization and legalization by allowing the possession of small amounts of illicit drugs. It was initially celebrated as a significant shift in a criminal justice approach that typically penalizes drug users and those suffering from addiction. The plan, intended to last three years, was to be closely monitored at both federal and provincial levels in British Columbia.
Canada’s health minister had envisioned the experiment as a model for other regions, and the provincial health officer believed it would significantly impact the escalating overdose crisis in British Columbia. “Addiction should be treated as a health issue, not a criminal one. Decriminalization sought to eliminate the stigma preventing those with addiction from seeking help due to fear of arrest or obtaining a criminal record,” Eby explained during the announcement to scale back the decriminalization measures.
Despite warnings from experts that deaths from contaminated drugs can only be resolved by addressing the drug supply’s increasing contamination, public tolerance has waned due to visible drug use and a rising death toll, prompting criticisms of government leniency.
“Sometimes, tough love is necessary,” Eby remarked.
Previously granted an exemption under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the province has now requested that key aspects of this exemption be revoked. Although personal possession of substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, and opioids such as fentanyl will still be allowed in private settings, including homes and safe injection sites, police will soon have the authority to seize drugs or make arrests in public spaces under “necessary” or “exceptional” circumstances.
“People are dying from deadly street drugs, and the issues with public use and disorder on our streets are evident,” stated Mike Farnworth, provincial minister of public safety and solicitor general. “While we continue to target the gangs and criminals trafficking toxic drugs, we are now taking steps to outlaw public drug use and to enhance access to treatment for those most in need.”
However, the province’s decision has faced strong criticism from advocacy groups. Moms Stop the Harm expressed on X, “BC never truly gave #decrim a chance. It’s being scapegoated for social problems caused by failed policies that have led to a housing crisis and poverty.” They argue that the government should address these underlying issues rather than backtrack on decriminalization, which impacts many, including their loved ones.
