Citation

Boase P. Transp. Res. Circular 2006; (E-C096): 97-100.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, U.S. National Academy of Sciences Transportation Research Board)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Canada is currently considering legislation that will detail the investigative steps necessary to pursue a drug-impaired prosecution. The hearings into the proposed changes to the Criminal Code of Canada highlights some of the legislative and policy challenges faced when attempting to address this issue specifically in law. A significant challenge identified has been to better document that a significant problem exists in addition to that which is already addressed by alcohol or impaired driving legislation. Any new legislation concerning drug impaired driving will happen within the context of the current environment of alcohol impaired driving enforcement. In many respects the situation is similar, but in others it is not. Legislators, the judicial system and the public are aware of the situation with alcohol impaired driving which may help or hinder new policies and programs related to drug impaired driving. It will be important to exploit the similarities but identify and manage the differences in order to bring in legislation which is both effective and accepted by the police, courts, and drivers. This includes making the requisite resources available to support any legislative or policy changes implemented. It will be very important to ensure that new legislation does not complicate prosecutions or existing sanctions for alcohol impaired driving.