B.C. seeks ban on using drugs in 'all public spaces,' shifting approach to decriminalization

The B.C. government is moving to have drug use banned in 'all public spaces,' marking a major shift in the province's approach to decriminalization.

The B.C. government is moving to have drug use banned in "all public spaces," marking a major shift in the province's approach to decriminalization.

While possession of small amounts of hard drugs will remain legal, officials announced Friday they are working with Health Canada to update B.C.'s exemption to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to give police more power to crack down on using drugs in public – including in hospitals, restaurants and parks.

"Keeping people safe is our highest priority," Premier David Eby said in a statement. "While we are caring and compassionate for those struggling with addiction, we do not accept street disorder that makes communities feel unsafe."

Under the requested ban, police would be able to force drug users to leave a public area – and also to seize their drugs and arrest them, at the officer's discretion.

In a news release, the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General said police will be instructed to "only arrest for simple possession of illicit drugs in exceptional circumstances."

The updated exemption would also address concerns raised from some health-care professionals, including the B.C. Nurses' Union, around drug use in hospital settings.

Officials said hospital staff would not begin searching patients for drugs, but would instead seek co-operation, and store substances for users who voluntarily turn them over.