The new drug decriminalization laws will not stop deaths, get rid of the stigma, or help people access treatment, but it will help keep some of society害羞草研究所檚 most vulnerable people out of jail, according to HOPE outreach founder and executive director, Angie Lohr.
害羞草研究所淧eople are still going to die,害羞草研究所� said Lohr.
On Jan. 31, the possession of drugs for personal use was decriminalized in B.C.
People are now allowed to carry up to 2.5 grams of illicit drugs, including opioids such as heroin and fentanyl, crack and powder cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA, also known as ecstasy.
The provincial government said that the plan is part of an effort to combat the overdose crisis, which has claimed the lives of 11,000 B.C. residents since 2016.
Lohr explained that decriminalizing drugs will not automatically result in a safe supply or more treatment beds and users will still be at risk of drug poisoning.
She said that the change will, however, keep those who truly need housing and treatments out of the court systems.
READ MORE: What to know about B.C. decriminalizing possession of drugs for personal use
She explained that not all drug users experience unsheltered homelessness. The stigma around drug use still exists and Lohr doesn害羞草研究所檛 expect the new legislation to change society害羞草研究所檚 perception of someone who experiences substance use disorder.
Lohr said that the majority of overdoses occur in homes, not on the street, amongst people who are not typically arrested for possession.
She said that decriminalization will only impact unsheltered people, as they often bear the brunt of law enforcement.
害羞草研究所淥ther than not arresting our most marginalized, it won害羞草研究所檛 change much害羞草研究所� I guess it害羞草研究所檚 a start.害羞草研究所�
To truly help society害羞草研究所檚 most vulnerable, Lohr said that there needs to be additional and improved access to treatment beds and supportive housing across the province.
READ MORE: B.C. drug advocates cautiously optimistic about decriminalization
READ MORE: Drug users say B.C. 害羞草研究所榝ight continues害羞草研究所� during decriminalization amid safe supply calls
Jacqueline.Gelineau@kelownacapnews.com
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