The New Zealand parliament has passed a new bill which fully legalises drug checking services in the country, becoming the first country in the world to do so.
Drug checking services – which had previously been allowed on a trial basis at music festivals there over the past year – allows individuals to test the safety of pills and other illicit substances without having them confiscated or being arrested.
The bill was passed with a 88-33 margin, and is expected to go into effect by next week, reports Vice.
Many advocacy groups and health experts have praised the decision, with the director of the NZ Drug Foundation, Sarah Helm, saying “it’s really significant and a moment to celebrate.”
“This will prevent harm and save lives. Drug checking is a hugely effective harm…