NCJ Number
172324
Journal
International Journal of Drug Policy Volume: 7 Issue: 3 Dated: (1996) Pages: 172-179
Date Published
1996
Length
8 pages
Annotation
After an introduction to the history of Canadian drug law up to the passage of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) in 1996, this paper outlines the central features of CDSA and assesses its "harm reduction" impact.
Abstract
The authors critique the CDSA from the principle that the purpose of drug-control policy is to balance the costs of harmful drug use with the costs of the control policy intended to prevent or minimize these harms. The authors conclude that the CDSA will perpetuate the harsh, "criminalization-centered" approach of previous drug laws and policy. It will also stigmatize and isolate drug users; waste resources on the futile pursuit of small-scale traffickers; and provide few health, safety, or public order benefits. On balance, it will probably generate as much harm as it will prevent. The authors' recommendations for a new law include non-criminal alternatives for drug users, the rescheduling of controlled substances in a more pharmacologically and health-related rational way, and a reduction in the criminal status of the cannabis possession offense through sentencing alternatives. 42 references