Three key Government bills became law this week, including legislation that aims to help Canadians cope with the increasing cost of living, among other measures, through the implementation of the fall economic statement.

Bill S-4 aims to modernize the criminal justice system. It helps address challenges faced by the courts, which were caused or exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bill C-32 implements provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 3, 2022 and provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on April 7, 2022.

Bill C-36 authorizes the government to spend funds for the federal public administration for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2023.

Three other key pieces of legislation became law earlier this fall.

Bill C-5, which repeals certain mandatory minimum penalties, allows for a greater use of conditional sentences and establishes diversion measures for simple drug possession offences, among other measures. Find out more.

Bill C-31, which provides new dental and rental benefits to Canadians in need. It enacts the Dental Benefit Act to provide an interim, tax-free benefit for children under the age of 12 who do not have access to private dental care. It also enacts the Rental Housing Benefit Act to provide a one-time payment of $500 to eligible renters. Find out more.

Bill C-30, which provides temporary financial support for low- and modest-income Canadians through a special top-up payment under the Goods and Services Tax. Find out more.

Additionally, the Senate made progress on other important legislative measures, such as Bill C-11, which updates Canada’s Broadcasting Act to bring online streamers into the fold. Senators completed an intensive committee study and reported back to the Senate with recommendations on the legislation. Find out more.

The Red Chamber also welcomed six new independent senators this fall.

• Senator Sharon Burey represents Ontario
• Senator Andrew Cardozo represents Ontario
• Senator Margo Greenwood represents British Columbia
• Senator Gigi Osler represents Manitoba
• Senator Rebecca Patterson represents Ontario
• Senator Ian Shugart represents Ontario

Senator Marc Gold, the Government Representative in the Senate, wished his Senate colleagues and Canadians at large a peaceful holiday season and joyful new year.

“I wish for all of you and for those you hold dear, happiness and, most importantly, health, in 2023. Whether you celebrate in synagogue, church, temple, mosque or around your dining room table, I truly hope that this season is filled with family, friends, love and rest,” he said.