Pubdate: Wed, 23 Nov 2005 Source: StarPhoenix, The (CN SN) Copyright: 2005 The StarPhoenix Contact: http://www.canada.com/saskatoon/starphoenix/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/400 Author: Veronica Rhodes, Saskatchewan News Network GOV'T INTRODUCES FORCED DETOX BILL Legislation Would Compel Teens To Get Treatment REGINA -- The Saskatchewan government introduced legislation Tuesday that will give parents and guardians a means of forcing drug-addicted youth into detox. The Youth Drug Detoxification and Stabilization Act was given first reading in the legislative assembly by Graham Addley, minister of healthy living services. Under the legislation, parents and guardians of youth aged 12 to 17 would ask a judge to have the youth assessed to determine if they need involuntary detoxification for a severe drug addiction. "We want to make sure the rights of young people are protected. However, we want to honour the very real desire of parents to protect their children," said Addley. If the judge deems the youth needs assessment, a warrant is issued for the youth to be apprehended within seven days. The youth will be assessed by a physician within 24 hours of apprehension. Following assessment, a youth can agree to voluntary detoxification. If they do not, a teenager can be placed involuntarily into detox following assessment by a second physician. "Once ordered, youth would be required to undergo involuntary detoxification and stabilization within a facility that offers a safe and protective environment for a period of up to five days. There is a possibility of an extension, determined by physicians, to a maximum of 15 days," said Addley. Any treatment following detox is voluntary. Addley said there is also an option for a community order where there are measures available to allow the youth to undergo detox and stabilization within 30 days in the community. Police may also apprehend a youth under the act without a warrant if the youth is believed to be suffering from a severe drug addiction. In this case, the youth would be assessed by a physician within 12 hours. Some details of the legislation are still being worked out, including where beds for the involuntary detox will be located. Addley said the beds are expected to be in a secure Saskatoon facility, but many options are being explored. He said he hopes the bill will be passed this fall and beds will be ready when it comes into force. - --- MAP posted-by: SHeath(DPF Florida)