Bills are proposed laws. They vary in size, effect and the public interest they receive. Typically, Government bills are introduced by a Cabinet Minister in the House of Commons (C-bills), but this type of legislation (S-bills) can also originate in the Senate if it does not initiate spending or impose a tax.

Here’s a list of Government legislation currently before the Senate.

Bill C-5: An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act

Sponsor: Senator Marc Gold

• This legislation 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.

Bill C-11: Online Streaming Act

Sponsor: Senator Dennis Dawson

• This bill proposes a new legislative regime to govern the collection, use and disclosure of personal information for commercial activity in Canada.