British Columbia on Friday dialed back the decriminalization of the possession of small amounts of cocaine, heroin, fentanyl and other hard drugs following an outcry over soaring drug use in public spaces.
In a radical policy shift to address an opioid overdose crisis that has killed thousands, the province last year announced a pilot project allowing adults to carry up to 2.5 grams of these drugs for personal use without fear of arrest or fines.
Officials hoped this would remove the stigma associated with drug use that keeps people from seeking help, and foster the notion that addiction is a health issue.
But it has led to an explosion of open drug use in parks, at beaches, in hospitals, on transit and other public spaces across British Columbia, while leaving police struggling to respond to complaints of disorder.
"Keeping people safe is our highest priority. While we are caring and compassionate for those struggling with addiction, we do not accept street disorder that makes communities feel unsafe," said B.C. Premier David Eby.
"We're taking action to make sure police have the tools they need to ensure safe and comfortable communities for everyone as we expand treatment options so people can stay alive and get better," he said.
