B.C.’s drug decriminalization pilot ends, questions remain over path forward

published on February 1, 2026 by Jack Rabb in CityNews Vancouver

As B.C.’s drug decriminalization project comes to an end, public opinion on its effectiveness is split.

The province decided against renewing the three-year pilot project, citing a lack of results.

However, those familiar with the impact caused by the policy shift said it made a real difference.

“It decriminalizes us,” said Garth Mullins, spokesperson for the Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users (VANDU) and podcaster.

Mullins was involved in the negotiations that led up to decriminalization three years ago.

He says the pilot project was never given a real chance after it was drastically curtailed 18 months after its start amid intense criticism…