B.C. backs off drug decriminalization pilot project following outcry

B.C. has banned all illicit drug use – except inside people’s homes, drug-checking sites or supervised consumption sites – rolling back its decriminalization pilot project after significant criticism from mayors, provincial and federal conservative politicians as well as a recent outcry from health care workers put at risk by patients using drugs in hospitals.NDP Premier David Eby announced the significant policy shift Friday afternoon, the same day his minister for mental health and addictions met with her federal counterpart, Ya’ara Saks, to ask the federal Liberal government to change its current exemptions to the B.C. decriminalization pilot that allowed limited drug use in some spaces.“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 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.”