What Is Bill 6?
Bill 6 introduces two key legal changes that are now in effect across Ontario. They are:
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Restrictions on Public Use of Illegal Substances: It is now a provincial offence to consume illegal drugs in public spaces, including parks, sidewalks, tents or encampments. Officers, including police and by-law officers, are authorized to: ask individuals to stop consuming substances; request that they leave the area; and ask for identification. Those who don’t comply may face penalties, including fines up to $10,000, six months in jail, or both.
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Updates to the Trespass to Property Act: The bill adds two “aggravating factors” that courts must weigh when setting fines under trespass offences. If the individual remained after being directed to leave orf the court assesses they’re likely to trespass again, fines
Why Was This Bill Introduced?
According to the provincial government, the goal of Bill 6 is to give municipalities additional tools to respond to concerns about public safety and substance use in shared spaces—especially in parks and near encampments. Alongside the bill, the Province also announced $75.5 million in new funding to support shelters and services for people experiencing homelessness.
To understand Bill 6 in full, it’s important to know that since 2020, Canada’s federal prosecution guidelines have deprioritized criminal charges for simple possession of illegal drugs for personal use. Under these federal rules, the focus has shifted toward diversion programs and connecting individuals to health services instead of pursuing criminal charges. However, provinces still have the legal authority to regulate behaviour in public spaces—and Bill 6 is an example of Ontario using that authority to create new provincial rules.
What This Means for Ward 13
Bill 6 is now in effect province-wide, including here in Toronto Centre. As your Councillor, I will continue to monitor how these changes impact our communities—particularly our parks, shelter system, and harm reduction services. History has unfortunately shown that policing is a poor response to what is ultimately a housing issue. Fines and jail time are not the deeply affordable housing our most vulnerable residents desperately need.
The Toronto Police have indicated that they will use the new tools shortly and I encourage them to ensure all community members are treated with fairness and dignity no matter what legislation allows. If you have questions about Bill 6 or would like to learn more about how the City supports people in crisis, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at [email protected].
