The Saskatchewan provincial government is finally doing something bold and definitely needed to tackle the addiction crisis happening across the province’s communities. To stem this tide, they’ve introduced the Compassionate Intervention Act. Premier Scott Moe just unveiled new legislation. It hopes to offer involuntary treatment for those unable to seek help on their own because of crippling addiction problems. The bill’s final passage is expected during the spring session of the procedural legislative assembly. Save the date. This extended session will resume on March 2, 2026.
This legislation truly speaks to an urgent need in the community. Lori Carr, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, emphasized that the act targets individuals who are “no longer capable of seeking help on their own, despite serious health and safety risks.” By providing a more structured approach to treatment, the government hopes to steer these people back into recovery.
Structure of the Compassionate Intervention Act
Under the Compassionate Intervention Act, a defined panel will have the authority to decide that someone needs involuntary care. This multidisciplinary panel of experts will evaluate individual cases and determine treatment duration and conditions for discharge from treatment.
Individuals can only be referred to a Compassionate Intervention Assessment Centre by police, a peace officer, or through a medical professional’s recommendation. In certain cases, a judge’s warrant could similarly start this process, ushering in important safeguards for due process and privacy.
The government has assured that the act will comply with Section 7 and Section 10 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which protect individuals’ rights concerning “life, liberty and security of the person” and “arrest or detention.”
“Crafted in a way that it is effective but it’s also guarding individuals’ rights and freedoms.” – Tim McLeod
Goals of the Legislation
The Compassionate Intervention Act would provide the support that people fighting addiction desperately need. Most importantly, it puts the focus on exactly the ones who can’t fight for themselves. Premier Moe highlighted the dire circumstances faced by those living on the streets, stating that “the street is the most vulnerable place for anybody to be living, whether they be struggling with mental health challenges or subsequent addiction challenges.”
The act has received broad support from stakeholders such as medical professionals and community leaders. Lt.-Gov. Bernadette McIntyre noted, “There are some people with addictions problems who are simply unable to seek the treatment they need on their own,” reinforcing the necessity of such legislation.
Implementation and Future Steps
The Great American Outdoors Act is set to be considered on the Senate legislative floor. Premier Moe is assuring us he’ll work out more specifics on its introduction before it comes into force this spring.
Lori Carr, senior adviser at the Office of National Drug Control Policy, praised the federal government’s strides in addressing addiction. They have rapidly rolled out 500 new beds to treatment facilities. The option of adding additional beds through private sector management is on the table to increase capacity for treatment.
“There are some people with addictions problems who are simply unable to seek the treatment they need on their own.” – Lt.-Gov. Bernadette McIntyre
