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Decriminalization Pilot Ends: Police Powers Restored Amid Controversy

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The end of the decriminalization pilot on January 31 will not significantly impact local policing, according to Sicamous RCMP Sgt. Murray McNeil.
Health Minister Josie Osborne said the pilot allowing possession of small amounts of drugs was unsuccessful, and McNeil noted it mainly affected court decisions.
Councilor Ian Baillie welcomed the restoration of police powers and called the decriminalization an "insane experiment."

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Story summary

The end of the decriminalization pilot on January 31 will not significantly impact local policing, according to Sicamous RCMP Sgt. Murray McNeil.
Health Minister Josie Osborne said the pilot allowing possession of small amounts of drugs was unsuccessful, and McNeil noted it mainly affected court decisions.
Councilor Ian Baillie welcomed the restoration of police powers and called the decriminalization an "insane experiment."