Overview
- The ordinance, which passed Thursday on a 7-6 vote, would remove city penalties for possessing syringes, glass pipes and other paraphernalia.
- The measure now heads to Mayor Jacob Frey, and a veto could stand because nine votes are needed to override and only seven supported it.
- Supporters, including sponsor Jason Chavez and Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, argue the change is a harm-reduction step that can steer people toward care.
- Opponents, led by Council Member Elizabeth Shaffer, say the loss of a charging tool could undercut narcotics enforcement and make streets feel less safe.
- The policy decriminalizes possession only, keeps public use illegal, and bars adults from giving paraphernalia to minors at least three years younger, aligning with a 2023 state change.