Petition request

That the House of Representatives urge the Minister for Regulation to review the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 and associated legislation, including the Psychoactive Substances Act 2013, to modernise New Zealand’s drug laws; and note that 1,031 people have signed a similar petition.

Petition reason

We believe New Zealand’s drug laws must be effective, fair, and fit for 2025. In our opinion, the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975, now 50 years old, is outdated and inequitable, and disproportionately impacts Māori and Pasifika. We do not feel the recommendations for a health-focused model in the Law Commission’s 2011 review of drug laws were implemented. We seek an urgent, expert-led review, informed by new evidence and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which we feel will modernise our laws and reduce harm.

Related

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Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 1
Date presented: 11 Mar 2026
Considered by: Petitions
SC Report(s): 22 Sep 2026 (Final)
Presenting member: Kahurangi Carter
Closing date: 26 Sep 2025