The substances remain illegal, but adults who have 2.5 grams or less of opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA for personal use will no longer be arrested, charged or have their drugs seized.
British Columbia has become the first province to be granted an exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to remove criminal penalties for possession of some hard drugs.
The three-year exemption is for people who possess a small amount of certain illicit substances for personal use.
The exemption will be in effect from Jan. 31, 2023, to Jan. 31, 2026, throughout B.C.
“Substance use is a public health issue, not a criminal one,” B.C. Minister Mental Health and Addictions Sheila Malcolmson said.
“By decriminalizing people who use drugs, we will break down the stigma that stops people from accessing life-saving support and services.”
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