Impact of the Decriminalization on Drug Use Experiences and Related Risks among People Who Use Drugs in British Columbia

Background/Objectives: On January 31 2023, the Canadian province of British Columbia (BC) decriminalized the personal possession of illicit drugs. The goals of decriminalization are multifaceted and include a reduction in arrests, stigmatization, and the redirection of people who use drugs (PWUD) away from the criminal justice system towards health and social services. This policy reform is a monumental shift away from prohibition, and carries significant impacts. As the key population this policy will impact, it is imperative that PWUD’ initial experiences with decriminalization are explored.
Methods: As part of a national evaluation of the decriminalization policy, between October 2023 and January 2024, we qualitatively interviewed a sample of 100 PWUD recruited from communities across BC. Participants partook in a structured socio-demographic survey, followed by a semi-structured 40 minute interview where they described their initial experiences with decriminalization. Interviews were analyzed using thematic content analysis approaches. 
Results: Qualitative results demonstrate that most PWUD consider decriminalization as a positive step forward as they are less concerned about being arrested, however many policy specifics (e.g., drugs included, threshold amount, and duration) were not always known. The majority of participants reported that their drug use patterns and related risks (e.g., overdose) remained unchanged after decriminalization, but some made subtle adjustments such as carrying under the 2.5g threshold to minimize the risk of criminalization or engaging in drug use with others as a risk mitigation strategy. Participants highlighted several policy benefits and concerns and offered suggestions for policy improvements.
Conclusions: This qualitative study sheds light on the initial impacts of the decriminalization of illicit drugs in BC among PWUD in regard to their drug use and related risks. Reevaluation of the possession threshold and efforts to enhance education and awareness about the policy could help better achieve the policy’s goals. Results have the potential to inform public policy and underscore the importance of continuing to evaluate the policy as it evolves.