This bill creates a new law called the "Restricting Public Consumption of Illegal Substances Act, 2025," which bans using illegal drugs in public places. It also updates the Trespass to Property Act by adding factors for harsher penalties when someone is warned to leave a property but stays longer or might trespass again. The bill assigns roles to police officers and other officials to enforce these rules and allows for seizure and analysis of illegal substances. It sets fines up to $10,000 and possible jail time for violations.
People are not allowed to use illegal drugs in public areas like parks or streets. Police can tell someone to stop and leave if they catch them in the act. If someone refuses to leave, police can arrest them right away. Police can also seize any illegal drugs they find and send samples for testing. If you seek emergency help for yourself or someone else, this bill says that your access to help will not be affected by drugs being involved. If you are warned to leave a private property and don't, you could face a bigger penalty if caught again or if the court thinks you might trespass again. The bill aims to keep public places safer but may lead to more arrests for drug use and trespassing.
The bill does not specify how much it will cost to enforce. It allows police to seize and analyze illegal substances, which may involve staff time and lab fees, but no detailed budget estimates are provided. Fines of up to $10,000 may generate some revenue. Overall, actual costs and revenue are unspecified; therefore, data unavailable.
Supporters say this bill will improve public safety by reducing drug use in public spaces, making parks and streets safer for everyone. It aims to discourage drug use out in the open and give police tools to enforce these rules effectively. The law also helps law enforcement act quickly and seize illegal drugs, which may reduce drug-related crime. Supporters believe that clearer rules and penalties will help communities stay safer.
Opponents argue that the bill could lead to more arrests for minor drug possession, especially in vulnerable populations. They worry it may criminalize people who need help for addiction or who are in emergency situations. Critics say that fines and potential jail time might punish rather than assist struggling individuals. They also express concern that enforcing these laws might strain police resources or lead to violations of personal rights, especially if enforcement is overly harsh or unclear.