WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government introduced a bill Thursday that would allow authorities to detain intoxicated people for up to 72 hours instead of the current 24.

The extra time would apply to people on drugs other than alcohol and is aimed at dealing with the longer-lasting effects of methamphetamines and some other substances.

"With this bill, health-care professionals can keep someone in protective care for 72 hours, giving them time to stabilize and giving them a chance to connect with addiction supports," Bernadette Smith, the minister for housing, addictions and homelessness, told reporters.

The idea was supported by Winnipeg police Chief Gene Bowers, who said the longer periods would reduce the number of calls police receive about intoxicated people posing a threat to themselv

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