Legislation to address firearms violence in Canada and implement preventative measures is among three Government bills that became law this week.

The following bills received Royal Assent on December 15:

• Bill C-21 cements restrictions on handguns, increases penalties for those who break the law and prevents new assault‑style firearms from entering the Canadian market, among other measures.
• Bill C-56 implements a temporary enhancement to the GST New Residential Rental Property Rebate in respect of new purpose-built rental housing. It also establishes a framework for an inquiry to be conducted into the state of competition in a market or industry.
• Bill C-60 grants funds for the federal public administration for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024.

LEGISLATION ADVANCES

Two Government bills that originated in the Senate were also adopted and sent to the House of Commons for consideration.

Bill S-13 amends the federal Interpretation Act to include a non-derogation clause on upholding section 35 Aboriginal and treaty rights.

Bill S-14 would establish the Akami-Uapishkᵁ–KakKasuak–Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve; expand the boundaries of seven national parks and one national park reserve; broaden and clarify offences in relation to the discharge or deposit of substances in a national park or national park reserve, among other measures.

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.