REGINA — The Response to Illicit Drugs Act comes into force on June 1 in Saskatchewan.
The act strengthens the province's ability to respond to the harms caused by illicit drug production and trafficking, according to the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General. A press release states the act establishes new legal tools that allow government and individuals harmed by illicit drug activity to recover costs from those involved in the production, trafficking, importing or exporting of highly addictive drugs.
The act also allows the province to void certain appointments, grants and agreements if an individual or entity is convicted of specified Schedule I drug offences under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Schedule I substances include fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, morphine, codeine and other highly addictive drugs. These provisions give government discretion to determine an appropriate response in each case.
The act also creates a civil cause of action to allow individuals or government to bring a claim against anyone who has caused harm through illicit drug activities.
The legislation does not apply to simple possession offences.
