Almost a year later, Hamilton hasn't requested to decriminalize illicit drugs for personal use

Almost a year after Hamilton city councillors voted to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of illegal drugs, CBC Hamilton has learned city officials still haven't submitted that request for exemption to Health Canada.

Researchers and advocates have mixed feelings about whether the delay is "inexcusable" or part of "good faith" efforts.

On Aug. 10, 2022, the board of health voted to make the request to Health Canada.

Councillors said at the time there would be benefits, pointing to how Portugal's decriminalization of some drugs led to fewer deaths, a drop in drug use, lowered stigmatization and more people using treatment services.

Other groups advocating for this include Ontario Big City Mayors, Ontario Association of Police Chiefs, Registered Nurses of Ontario and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction.

While possession of these drugs would still be criminal in Canada, cities can apply for individual exemptions. A similar request