In a report released today, BC’s Provincial Health Officer is calling for the decriminalization of drug users.
Dr. Bonnie Henry says that we need to do more to combat the overdose crisis, and that decriminalization is the next logical step.
Under Dr. Henry’s proposal, possession of illegal drugs for personal use would no longer lead to criminal justice penalties, such as jail time or a criminal record.
According to the report, the stigma around drug use often leads users to hide their problem, leading to further difficulties in getting them the help they need.
Based on evidence presented in the report, Henry says that decriminalizing personal possession could help ease that stigma, making it easier to access help.
She says that current laws cause a deep-rooted shame and do more harm than good.
