An Act to amend the Criminal Code (hate propaganda, hate crime and access to religious or cultural places)

Tightens Criminal Code rules on hate propaganda and creates a new offence for intimidation outside a place of worship, school, or community centre. Aimed at the rise in reported targeted incidents over the last two years. Civil-liberties groups have asked for narrow drafting to keep ordinary protest activity outside the offence.

Issues this bill touches

• Crime & Public Safety→

  Adds Criminal Code offences targeting harassment near houses of worship, schools, and community centres after a rise in hate-motivated incidents.

• Gender Equality & Reproductive Rights→

  Strengthens hate-propaganda offences, including hate motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity.

Legislative historyi

1. First readingSeptember 19, 2025

   First reading in the House of Commons.

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2. Second readingOctober 1, 2025

   Second reading in the House of Commons.

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3. IntroducedOctober 20, 2025

   Tabled in the originating chamber by the sponsor.

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4. Third readingMarch 25, 2026

   Third reading in the House of Commons.

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5. First readingMarch 26, 2026

   First reading in the Senate.

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6. In committeeApril 15, 2026

   Reviewed clause by clause by a standing committee; amendments possible.

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7. IntroducedApril 25, 2026

   Tabled in the originating chamber by the sponsor.

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8. First readingApril 25, 2026

   Bill formally introduced; printed text becomes available.

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9. Second readingApril 30, 2026

   Second reading in the Senate.

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Sponsored by

Mark CarneyLIBERAL→