Kelowna International Airport is reminding potential air travelers that just because illegal substances Has been decriminalized in BC, doesn’t mean they’re welcome to pack them on flights.
“As of January 31, adults within British Columbia are able to possess small amounts of certain illegal substances for personal use,” reads the notice from Kelowna International Airport.
“Decriminalization does not apply at airports, even when a person’s final destination resides within BC. Individuals found in possession of illegal substances at Kelowna International Airport will be subject to criminal penalties.”
Health Canada has granted the province of BC an exemption from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, effective January 31, 2023, until January 31, 2026.
Under this exemption, people 18 years and older in BC cannot be arrested or charged for possessing small amounts of certain illegal drugs for personal use.
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Starting Tuesday, adults with up to two and a half grams of drugs, including opioids, cocaine and MDMA, for personal use will not be arrested or charged.
The goal is to reduce the shame and stigma associated with drug use, which the province says prevents people from accessing life-saving services.
Since 2016, toxic drugs have killed nearly 11,000 people in B.C.
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