The BC Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General is undertaking policy work to support possible Fall 2023 legislation to regulate the use of drugs in certain public spaces. Local government elected officials and senior leadership staff are invited to participate in one of two virtual engagement sessions on July 13 and 19, or to submit written comments.
The BC government sought and received an exemption from the federal government to decriminalize personal possession of small amounts of certain controlled substances including opioids (such as heroin, morphine, and fentanyl), crack and powder cocaine, methamphetamines (meth), and MDMA (ecstasy). Decriminalization is a key part of BC’s response to the drug poisoning crisis and is intended to save and improve the lives of people who use drugs. The exemption is in place for an initial three-year period from January 31, 2023 until January 31, 2026.
The Province currently regulates where people can smoke tobacco, drink alcohol, and use cannabis, but does not yet have rules about public use of other controlled substances.
Some local governments, police departments, and members of the public have expressed concerns about public drug use, particularly in child-focused spaces like playgrounds. In the context of decriminalization, the Province notes that there may be a need for reasonable limits on drug use in certain public spaces.
The Province is inviting local governments to participate in one of two virtual sessions. Due to the constrained time period for policy and legislation development, the sessions will take place on:
- Thursday, July 13, 9 – 10:30am PST
- Wednesday, July 19, 1 – 2:30pm PST
To register for a video call link for either of these sessions, please email Ministry staff with your name(s), contact information, the name of your local government, and which session you want to attend.
Alternatively, local governments can download the written feedback form and email it to Ministry staff by July 31.