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Objective
This commentary explores a recent shift in British Columbia's drug policy under a novel drug “decriminalization” framework in the context of a severe crisis of drug-related overdoses and poisonings, driven by a toxic and unregulated drug supply. This article focus on the province's move toward "recriminalization" under this framework.
Findings/Key points
In short, recriminalization was a shift in BC's drug decriminalization framework to only apply in private residences, and be removed from essentially all outdoor spaces. We examine the sociolegal context of the BC government decision to recriminalize drug use in 2024, including attempts to criminalize recent drug use and police suspicion of substance use. This examination underscores the complex interplay between drug policy, public health crises, and state power in the context of systemic colonial and racialized control that may be adaptable to other regions considering drug law reform.
