Ontario Premier Doug Ford has expressed his willingness to consider involuntary addiction treatment. The Big City Mayors group in Ontario has reiterated their request to the province to review current mental health laws to potentially expand involuntary treatment options. Ford stated his openness to the idea during a recent announcement of a cabinet shuffle, introducing a new associate minister of mental health, Michelle Cooper.
The province is currently examining the possibility of involuntary mental health and addiction treatment within correctional facilities, but no legislative actions have been taken thus far. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in homelessness and addiction issues across Ontario, placing increased financial strain on municipalities.
Ford emphasized the importance of ensuring individuals receive necessary support while consulting with mayors on the topic of involuntary treatment. Health Minister Sylvia Jones, while not dismissing the concept, has expressed a preference for voluntary treatment and is seeking guidance from experts.
Two years ago, the mayors initially urged the province to urgently review the Mental Health Act and the Health Care Consent Act to enable short-term involuntary hospitalizations. Recently, they have intensified their calls for action, underscoring the urgency of addressing the ongoing crisis affecting communities across the province.