Gun Control Bill, Bill C-21, Becomes Law: What to Expect Next
The Canadian government has recently passed the highly anticipated Gun Control Bill, officially known as Bill C-21. The new legislation brings forth a series of significant changes to the country’s gun control measures, aiming to enhance public safety and reduce the circulation of illegal firearms. Here’s what Canadians can expect in the wake of this new law.
One of the key provisions of Bill C-21 is the continuation of the freeze on handgun sales and licenses for the majority of Canadians. This measure seeks to restrict the accessibility of handguns among the general population, with the intention of reducing instances of gun violence.
Additionally, the bill enacts a ban on assault-style weapons, formally codifying the Criminal Code definition of assault-style weapons. The ban will effectively prohibit the possession and sale of these firearms across the country. The government hopes that this ban will help curb the proliferation of high-capacity, military-style firearms.
Addressing emerging concerns in the world of firearms, Bill C-21 also includes provisions to tackle the issue of 3D-printed ghost guns and smuggling. By implementing stricter regulations and penalties, the government aims to prevent the circulation of untraceable and potentially dangerous weapons.
In an effort to combat gun smuggling, the maximum Criminal Code penalties for this offense will be raised from 10 to 14 years in prison. The government believes that the tougher penalties will act as a strong deterrent and contribute to reducing the illicit firearms trade.
While the new law imposes strict regulations, exemptions will be made for athletes involved in elite-level sport shooting, including those participating in the Olympics. Detailed regulations regarding these exemptions are still to be established.
Bill C-21 takes significant strides to address domestic violence, expanding the definition to include all forms of intimate partner and family violence. The legislation also introduces red flag laws, which prevent individuals under protection orders from owning or possessing firearms. These measures aim to provide greater protection to victims of domestic violence and reduce the potential for lethal outcomes.
Individuals purchasing gun magazines will now be required to present a firearm possession license, further strengthening the licensing requirements surrounding firearms ownership in Canada.
In response to the passage of Bill C-21, gun control advocates have lauded the expanded red flag laws and the broader gun control measures. Organizations like the YWCA and the Coalition for Gun Control believe that these measures offer increased safety, particularly in cases of domestic violence.
However, the Canadian Sporting Arms and Ammunition Association (CSAAA), which assists with the government’s gun buyback program, expressed disappointment over the passage of the bill. They anticipate significant job losses within the firearms industry due to limitations on retail operations, reduced gun range activities, and limited manufacturing opportunities.
Despite this disappointment, the CSAAA is collaborating with the government to establish the retail framework for the gun buyback program. Their primary objective is to ensure fair compensation for businesses affected by the ban on certain firearms.
The gun buyback program, covering over 1,500 banned firearms including assault-style weapons, is a critical aspect of Bill C-21. An extended amnesty period until October 30, 2025, has been implemented to allow individuals and retailers in possession of these firearms to comply with the program. The government has initiated engagements with private sector companies to facilitate the buyback process.
As the various provisions of Bill C-21 are implemented in the coming months and years, the full impact of this legislation on Canadian society remains to be seen. Nevertheless, the passage of the bill marks a significant step in Canada’s ongoing efforts to strengthen gun control and prioritize public safety.
In the wake of this new law, Canadians can expect tighter restrictions on handgun sales, a ban on assault-style weapons, measures to counter 3D-printed ghost guns and smuggling, increased penalties for gun smuggling, exemptions for elite sport shooters, enhanced measures against domestic violence, and stricter licensing requirements for gun magazine purchases. These changes, while generating a polarized response, aim to strike a balance between public safety and the rights of firearm owners across the country.
