Source: The Patriot Light | AWK Network | VIEW ORIGINAL POST ==>
Premier Doug Ford says his government is introducing legislation to reduce public drug use and crack down on encampments.
The premier made the announcement at a news conference in Toronto on Dec. 12, the last day of sitting for the legislature until March.
“Enough is enough,” he said. “This has to stop, and it will stop. Families deserve to play in and enjoy their parks and playgrounds without fearing for the safety of their kids.”
The proposed legislation comes as the province grapples with at least 1,400 homeless encampments set up in cities and towns across Ontario in 2023, according to the Municipalities of Ontario.
The legislation will see amendments to the Trespass to Property Act, allowing for penalties that will apply to encampments, according to a Dec. 12 Ontario news release.
Changes have also been proposed to allow police to order individuals using drugs in public spaces to leave. Officers will also be permitted to issue a ticket or arrest an individual who does not comply.
Those who fail to abide by the prohibition on drug use in public spaces could be fined up to $10,000 or face up to six months in jail, the news release said.
Ford’s decision…