B.C. won't extend drug decriminalization pilot

Health Minister Josie Osborne announced B.C. will not extend its three-year drug decriminalization pilot, which began Jan. 31, 2023 and is set to expire at the end of this month.

B.C.'s health minister, Josie Osborne, announced the province will not extend its drug decriminalization pilot. The three-year project began on Jan. 31, 2023 and allowed adults limited possession of certain illicit drugs. The exemption is scheduled to expire at the end of this month. The pilot was introduced in response to the province's ongoing toxic drug crisis. Key facts: - Health Minister Josie Osborne announced the government will not continue the three-year decriminalization pilot. - The pilot began on Jan. 31, 2023 and the exemption is set to expire at the end of this month. - Under the exemption, people aged 18 and over were allowed to possess up to 2.5 grams of certain substances, including some opioids and stimulants. Summary: The pilot's exemption will end when it expires at month-end and officials have said it will not be renewed. Undetermined at this time.