Bill Introduced to Canada Senate to Strengthen Drug Penalties

New legislation has been introduced into the Canadian Senate that proposes tougher penalties for drug crimes. According to a recent press release, the bill specifically targets gangs and other organized criminal groups who participate in the illegal drug trade.

"Illicit drug production is the most significant source of money for gangs and organized crime in Canada," said Honorable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls and Attorney General of Canada, in the statement.

"This legislation is essential to assist law enforcement agencies in cracking down on drug producers and dealers who threaten the safety of our children, neighborhoods and communities."

The new legislation proposes mandatory jail time for offenders when the offence of trafficking is carried out for organized crime purposes or includes a weapon or violence; the drug is sold to a youth or the trafficking takes place near a school; the production of the illegal drug constitutes a potential security, health or safety hazard.

The Penalties for Organized Drug Crime Act would provide mandatory jail time for serious drug offences and will allow special penalties to be opposed for special situations as specified above. The proposed reforms are expected to help disrupt criminal enterprises by targeting drug suppliers.

Serious drug offences will include production; trafficking; possession for the purpose of trafficking; importing and exporting; and possession for the purpose of exporting.
Amending the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Bill would ensure this Act includes mandatory prison terms for drugs listed as Schedule I, such as heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine, and as Schedule II, such as marijuana.