An Act to amend the Customs Act and the Preclearance Act, 2016
Bill S-7 was a Senate government bill amending the Customs Act and the Preclearance Act, 2016 (S.C. 2017, c. 27) to clarify the standard for Canada Border Services Agency officers to examine personal digital devices (smartphones, laptops, tablets) at Canadian airports and border crossings. Followed the 2015 R. v. Canfield (2020 ABCA 383) ruling that Charter section 8 requires reasonable grounds before such searches. S-7 introduced a reasonable general concern statutory threshold below reasonable grounds, drawing Charter critique from the Canadian Civil Liberties Association and OpenMedia. Did not pass third reading in the Commons before 44-1 ended.
Status
Quick learn
Limits when Canadian border agents can search your phone or laptop. They'll need a clearer reason to do it, bringing the practice in line with the Charter.
Issues this bill touches
- National Security
Customs Act + Preclearance Act, 2016 amendments.
Legislative history
- First reading
First reading in the Senate.
View source - Second reading
Second reading in the Senate.
View source - Third reading
Third reading in the Senate.
View source - First reading
First reading in the House of Commons.
View source - Introduced
Tabled in the originating chamber by the sponsor.
View source - Second reading
Debated in principle; vote sends the bill to committee.
View source
Official source
Read full text on Parliament of Canada