The Legislative Assembly introduced amendments to The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act on Monday that will expand to include fentanyl, hypodermic needles and methamphetamine as street weapons. A government news release says the addition recognizes the significant risks they present to public safety.

It’s expected the Act will be passed during the spring sitting and then come into force this summer after the regulations have been finalized. When that happens, it will mean municipalities and First Nations will be able to opt in to the new rules to regulate the possession, transportation and storage of these street weapons including large knives, machetes, hypodermic needles and bear spray.

Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod says the legislation includes exemptions to ensure these items can still be used for their lawful purposes, such as medical treatment, food preparation and protection from wildlife threats.