Psychoactive Substances Act 2016

Summary

This Act makes it illegal to produce, distribute, or possess psychoactive substances (drugs designed to copy the effects of illegal drugs). It's designed to close the loophole where new 'legal highs' were sold because they weren't specifically named in drug laws, though there are some exceptions for medicines, alcohol, and tobacco.

A vote to support means

—Supporting this Act means backing the government's effort to protect public health by banning dangerous drugs that aren't yet illegal. It aims to stop dealers from selling new 'legal highs' by making it illegal to produce or supply any psychoactive substance, helping keep communities safer and reducing drug-related harm.

A vote to oppose means

—Critics worry the Act is too broad and could accidentally ban harmless everyday items like incense or herbal products. Some also argue it punishes people unfairly and that it doesn't actually stop drug use—it just pushes people towards more dangerous illegal alternatives.

Cast Your Vote

People's Vote0 votes

0% Support · 00% Oppose · 0

Bill Passage

Commons

1st reading21 Jul 2015
2nd reading19 Oct 2015
Committee stage27 Oct 2015
Report stage20 Jan 2016
3rd reading20 Jan 2016

Lords

1st reading28 May 2015
2nd reading9 Jun 2015
Committee stage23 Jun 2015
Report stage14 Jul 2015
3rd reading20 Jul 2015

Royal Assent28 Jan 2016

Full Bill Description(click to expand)

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