Langley City rally pushes for provincial cannabis harm‑reduction program

A public rally is set for July 24 at Lynwood Park in Langley City, British Columbia, to pressure the provincial government to fund a cannabis substitution program for people using opioids and other high‑risk street drugs. Organizers say the initiative provides low‑barrier access to cannabis, education, peer support and links to services, aiming to reduce overdose deaths and support recovery.

Speakers include Langley City Mayor Nathan Pachal, Councillor Delaney Mack, event organizer Dan Borchardt, and Joy Davies, executive director of Canadian Medical Cannabis Partners. Advocates are also presenting a Change.org petition calling for licensing of small medical cannabis growers, walk‑in clinics with certified practitioners, high‑dosage medical cannabis, and tax‑free affordable access. The city previously included a one‑year pilot in its strategic plan, but provincial approval and funding have not been secured, leaving municipalities unable to implement the program alone.