As decriminalization of small amounts of narcotics comes into force in B.C. Jan. 31, provincial officials say cooperation across all levels of government, law enforcement and health authorities is needed.
It’s necessary, they say, so those with substance abuse issues can feel less stigmatized and can get the help they need.
More than 10,000 British Columbians have died of an overdose since 2016, the year B.C. declared the crisis a public health emergency.
“There isn’t a family or a community in the province that hasn’t been affected by lost lives,” Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, told delegates at the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention in Whistler Sept. 13.
“Substance use is a health-care problem, not a criminal one,” she said, noting that it is shame and fear that all too often prevent people from reaching out for help.
The federal government approved an exemption for such possession in May. Malcolmson’s federal counterpart, Carolyn Bennett, made clear that the exemption is not legalization.
The substances will remain illegal; however, adults who have 2.5 grams or less of drugs — including fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA — for personal use will no longer be arrested, charged or have their drugs seized.
