This law makes changes to how Canada handles benefits and leaves for parents when a child dies. If a parent or a self-employed person receives employment insurance or parental benefits to care for a child, they still get those benefits if the child dies during that period. Also, they do not need to apply for new benefits or report the child’s death, unless the death is caused by a crime they committed. For parents on maternity or parental leave, they can keep their leave even if their child dies, and they are considered to still be caring for their child until the leave ends.
If you are a parent or self-employed person caring for a newborn or adopted child, and your child dies during your benefit or leave period, you will continue to receive benefits and leave rights without needing to reapply or update your situation. This applies whether you get employment insurance or are self-employed. It reduces the paperwork and complications after a very difficult time. However, if your child's death was caused by a crime you committed and you are convicted of that crime, these protections do not apply.
No publicly available information.
Supporters say this law will make it easier for grieving parents by removing extra steps after a child's death. It recognizes that parents are still caring for their child emotionally and practically, even if the child has died. It also provides consistency for self-employed workers and those on parental leave, giving them peace of mind. Supporters believe this law is compassionate and reduces unnecessary administrative burdens.
Opponents argue that the law may make it harder to detect fraud or abuse of benefits. Since parents do not need to report a child's death unless related to a crime, there could be cases where benefits continue when they should not. Critics also say that the law might increase costs for government programs, although specific financial impact is not available. Some suggest that there may need to be safeguards to prevent misuse.