Bail Reform Amendments Receive Royal Assent

Summary#

The Canada Gazette entry records that on December 5, 2023 the Governor General signified assent to An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform) (Bill C-48, chapter 30, 2023). The page also notes Standing Order 130 about notices for private bills (published November 20, 2021) and gives contact information for the Private Members’ Business Office, House of Commons.

What it does#

• Records that assent was given to An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform) (Bill C-48, chapter 30, 2023).
• Says assent was signified by written declaration under the Royal Assent Act, S.C. 2002, c. 15, and that both the Senate and the House of Commons were notified on December 5, 2023.
• Reminds readers that Standing Order 130 (rules on notices of intended applications for private bills) was published on November 20, 2021, and lists the Private Members’ Business Office, House of Commons as a contact for more information.

Who's affected#

• People involved in criminal cases now covered by An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform) (Bill C-48, chapter 30, 2023) — for example, accused persons, their lawyers, judges, police and correctional services, and victims or their representatives.
• Members of Parliament and anyone using or tracking private bill procedures who may refer to Standing Order 130 or need to contact the Private Members’ Business Office, House of Commons.
• The Gazette entry itself does not include the full text of the amendments, so it is not clear from this notice exactly which people or cases will see specific changes.

Why it matters#

• Changes labelled as “bail reform” can affect whether people are held in custody or released while awaiting trial, and can change court and police procedures.
• This Gazette notice confirms the law received formal assent, which is a key step before changes take effect. The entry does not spell out the details of the bail changes, so anyone directly affected should look up the full text of An Act to amend the Criminal Code (bail reform) (Bill C-48, chapter 30, 2023) or seek legal guidance to understand the specific effects.