Toronto transit riders have long complained about witnessing open drug use on the TTC. Now, the Ontario government is introducing new rules to crack down on drug users on public transit.
At a news conference at Downsview Station on Monday, Solicitor General Michael Kerzner announced that the province is introducing legislation to give special transit constables the power to issue tickets to individuals using drugs on public transit and to arrest those who refuse to comply.
“It is unacceptable that people do not feel safe where they live, work and on their daily commutes,” Kerzner said.
The new powers for special constables are set to take effect in July, expanding enforcement of the Restricting Public Consumption of Illegal Substances Act, which was passed last year.
How the new powers will work
Kerzner explained that a special constable would first instruct a suspected drug user to stop. If the individual does not comply, the situation could escalate to a fine or arrest. If an arrest is made, local police will be notified.
The penalties for those arrested for using illegal substances in public spaces include a maximum fine of $10,000 and/or up to six months in jail.
Additional legislative changes
The new constable powers are part of a broader legislative package aimed at improving public safety. The package also targets illegal drug production by banning tools such as pill presses and making it illegal to own, produce, or traffic chemicals used to make illegal drugs.
Commercial landlords who knowingly allow illegal drug production on their properties will also face consequences. The legislation will provide police with stronger tools to shut down such operations.
