SoVote

Bill S-232

44th Parl. 1st Sess.

April 11, 2024

This bill aims to develop a national strategy to decriminalize simple possession of illegal substances in Canada. The strategy will be developed by the Minister of Health in consultation with other ministers and representatives of provincial and territorial governments responsible for public health, justice, and public safety. The bill also amends the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to repeal provisions that criminalize possession of certain substances. The goal is to address substance use disorder as a public health issue rather than a criminal justice issue, and to reduce public health and public safety harms associated with substance use through harm reduction and diversionary approaches. The national strategy will include setting specific objectives, encouraging investment in treatment and harm reduction, modifying health and social services, establishing a minimum quantity of a controlled substance for criminalization, establis

Decriminalizing simple possession of illegal substances is a health-centred approach that recognizes substance use disorder as a public health issue and seeks to reduce the related public health and public safety harms. It is based on evidence that criminal sanctions for simple possession have not been effective and alternatives require partnerships and access to diversion measures. Such measures have proven to be effective in improving health and safety outcomes, reducing recidivism, and ancillary crimes. The proposed national strategy includes setting national objectives and specific thresholds to decriminalize possession, alongside a corresponding administrative sanctions regime. It involves consultations with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis persons and organizations, and with all other interested persons or organizations considered appropriate. Overall, decriminalization will lead to a system that prioritizes the health and well-bei

The decriminalization of illegal substances sends the wrong message to society and undermines the efforts of law enforcement to combat the drug trade. It may increase drug use and create a culture of drug acceptance. It also fails to address the root causes of drug addiction and ignores the harmful effects of drug use on individuals, families, and communities. While diversionary approaches may have some benefits, they cannot be seen as a solution to the problem of drug abuse. Decriminalizing drug possession does not provide a path to recovery and may lead to a false sense of security among users, who continue to face health risks and addiction issues even if they are not prosecuted. Lastly, decriminalization may have unforeseen consequences and lead to unintended negative outcomes, such as increased injury, illness, and overdoses.