The number of drug-related roadside suspensions in Saskatchewan has surged, raising concerns about cannabis laws and policing practices.
Suspension Statistics
In 2023, 1,594 drivers faced suspensions for having THC, the active ingredient in cannabis, in their system, compared to just 76 in 2020. This marks a significant increase from 2019, the first full year after cannabis legalization, when 76 drivers had their vehicles impounded and licenses suspended for three days. Despite the high number of suspensions last year, only 11 criminal code charges for alleged THC impairment were filed.
Medical Cannabis Users' Concerns
Mike Bartlett, a medical cannabis user and horticultural supply store owner in Saskatoon, is worried about losing his truck and driver's license. Bartlett, who has a prescription for cannabis to manage chronic pain from a near-fatal crash, co-administers a Fb group, "Saskatchewan SGI cannabis victims," where 322 members share their experiences. The group alleges police target cannabis store customers and that the province's zero tolerance policy is a cash grab. They also question the accuracy of roadside tests, which can detect THC in saliva for up to eight days after use.
Police and Legal Perspectives
Police maintain that their roadside tests are designed to detect recent cannabis use. However, scientific studies suggest THC detection does not necessarily correlate with impairment. Mark Brayford, a veteran Saskatoon criminal defense lawyer, advises frequent cannabis users to be cautious. "If you're smoking pot four times a week, you're going to have to resign yourself to the fact that you can't legally drive a car," Brayford said. He acknowledges that the laws seem unfair to many cannabis users but notes that those who only face a three-day suspension should consider themselves fortunate not to face criminal charges.
Debate Over Testing and Impairment
The sharp rise in suspensions highlights the complexities of testing for THC and determining impairment. Critics argue that detecting THC in a driver's system does not equate to impairment. The low number of criminal charges relative to suspensions suggests a discrepancy between positive THC tests and actual impairment.
Conclusions?
The increase in drug-related roadside suspensions in Saskatchewan underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing public safety and fair application of cannabis laws. As the cannabis industry and users call for clearer regulations and more accurate testing methods, the debate over how to effectively and fairly manage cannabis use and driving continues.
