On the Street: Small amounts of drugs now decriminalized

B.C. has officially decriminalized the possession of small amounts of drugs in an effort to tackle the ongoing opioid crisis. The new policy was introduced Tuesday.

Drug users will now be allowed to carry up to a total of 2.5 grams of opioids such as heroin and fentanyl, as well as crack and powder cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA, also known as ecstasy.

B.C.'s application to the federal government called for 4.5 grams, but police requested one gram before a decision by Ottawa to allow a cumulative 2.5 grams.

The pilot project will continue until Jan. 31, 2026, after a federal exemption from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Castanet hit the streets to find out what your thoughts are on the change.

Have an opinion? Send it to [email protected].

-with files from The Canadian Press