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Ontario Premier Doug Ford says he's open to idea of involuntary addiction treatment
Ford says involuntary addiction treatment could help people and communities as Ontario studies the approach and has not introduced legislation.
On Thursday, Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed openness to involuntary addiction treatment, saying he would support the measure if it benefits individuals and communities.
Homelessness and addiction issues have surged across Ontario since the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting the Big City Mayors group to repeatedly request a provincial review of mental health laws.
The province is currently studying involuntary mental health and addiction treatment in jails, though officials have not yet proceeded with any formal legislation on the matter.
Health Minister Sylvia Jones maintains a preference for voluntary treatment models while consulting with experts, having not ruled out involuntary measures entirely.
Municipalities across Ontario continue to face the brunt of rising costs associated with homelessness and addiction crises, intensifying pressure on provincial policymakers to act.