Tougher penalties are on the way for people who drive under the influence of drugs.

As part of the Making Ontario’s Road Safer Act – implemented in June 2015 – drivers under the influence of drugs can expect to face the same sanctions as drunk drivers beginning on Oct. 2.

CTV Toronto has learned that the province will issue a notice across Ontario about the impending changes sometime Wednesday afternoon.

Among the changes are immediate licence suspensions and hefty fines.

Currently, drivers who get behind the wheel while on drugs face criminal charges pertaining to the substance but do not face licence penalties and suspensions like drunk drivers do.

Starting next month, though, first time offenders who are found under the influence of drugs could face a $180 fine and have their licence suspended immediately for up to three days. Drivers who are caught a second time could have their licence suspended for a week.

The penalty for repeat offenders includes a mandatory drug treatment program and the impoundment of their vehicle.

Furthermore, drivers suspected of being high can expect the same sobriety test required of drunk drivers as well as an evaluation from a registered drug recognition officer.

According to a Toronto police back in May, the number of drivers charged with impaired driving due to drugs was up 150 per cent from the same time last year.

The provincial government announced in April it would pursue legislation to legalize marijuana by 2017.