BC Introduces Legislation to Ban Public Drug Use in Certain Areas Following Months of Backlash from Municipalities

New legislation has been introduced which would ban the public use of illicit drugs in some areas just months after it became legal.

Last May, the Province received authorization to decriminalize the use and possession of under 2.5 grams of certain illegal drugs.

Since then, they have been bombarded with backlash from municipal leaders and opposition MLAs regarding the abundance of drug use in public spaces.

This week, new rules came into effect banning the possession of illegal substances within 15 metres of playgrounds, parks, skate parks, and spray or wading pools.

If passed, the new legislation would also ban the consumption of illicit drugs within six metres of a residence or business entrance or bus stop, and at parks, beaches, and sports fields.

It would enable police officers to ask users spotted in those areas to relocate to an appropriate area, such as a supervised consumption site.

Should they refuse, the officer would then be able to proceed with enforcement measures if appropriate.

It would also clarify rules for municipalities regarding the issuing of additional bylaws banning public consumption.