“I am going to say what this is… a failure of political courage that will cost lives.”

That’s how trauma surgeon John Crozier described the NSW Government’s recently-announced cannabis driving reforms.

And, now, Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell has taken aim at Labor for introducing such measures.

He’s joined his Nationals and Liberal colleagues in opposing the changes that put communities in his electorate, and road-users across the state, at unnecessary risk.

“Not only was Premier Chris Minns unable to give details of his drug-driving law overhaul, he also conceded in Parliament that people react differently to cannabis,” Mr Layzell said.

“How can they implement this policy when there isn’t even a test for levels of impairment?

“We need science-based solutions, not experiments on our roads.”

Under the reforms, drivers taking prescribed medicinal cannabis containing THC will no longer be automatically penalised under the current drug presence offence framework in certain circumstances.

But, to be eligible for the system, motorists are required to enrol as a registered medicinal cannabis user with Transport for NSW (TfNSW), provide proof of a valid prescription, and complete an online education program about cannabis and driving safety.

The changes only apply to NSW drivers on an unrestricted licence.

As well, the government will introduce a measured three-strike approach for registered medicinal cannabis users, recognising some drivers may test positive to THC despite using their medication lawfully and responsibly.

Mr Layzell disclosed national road safety data revealed the number of people dying from drug-related crashes on roads was now higher than drink-driving.

“Both Chris Minns and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison refused to release the ‘research’ that has informed their three-strike drug-driving policy,” he said.

“An injured child doesn’t get three chances.

“Labor has traded road safety for political support from the crossbench.”

Under the system, registered medicinal cannabis users will still be roadside drug tested:

• If a driver returns a positive result, they’ll continue to receive an immediate 24-hour driving ban while the sample is sent for laboratory testing
• If the lab reveals THC below the maximum threshold, there’ll be no charge or further action
• If the laboratory result shows THC at or above the threshold, the driver will receive a warning letter for a first or second detection within two years. This will give them the opportunity to adjust their dose and driving behaviour after medicine use
• A third detection above the threshold within the two-year period will result in penalties, including a fine of $704 and a minimum three-month licence suspension
• If the driver has alcohol present, or the lab result shows multiple illicit drugs, or any drug other than THC, the driver will face the standard drug-driving offence

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