Genetic discrimination law constitutional, Supreme Court rules
Justice Andromache Karakatsanis has upheld the constitutionality of the federal Genetic Non-Discrimination Act, ruling it was within Parliament’s power because it responded to a threat of harm to several overlapping public interests traditionally protected by the criminal law: autonomy, privacy, equality and public health.
Friday, July 10, 2020 @ 5:46 PM
Last Updated: Friday, July 10, 2020 @ 6:04 PM
In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court of Canada has ruled Parliament had the authority to enact a law prohibiting genetic discrimination despite an earlier ruling which said it was unconstitutional. But a number of legal observers noted the court did not ultimately resolve an issue that had been facing it for some time — what level of harm is necessary in order for Parliament to utilize its criminal law power. ... [read more]
Federal-provincial initiative will insure Ontario farmers for COVID-19 losses
Friday, July 10, 2020 @ 2:42 PM
The federal-provincial AgriInsurance program is being enhanced for Ontario farmers to include coverage for labour shortages due to COVID-19. The increased insurance will include coverage for losses due to an inability to attract sufficient on-farm labour due to COVID-19, as well as illness or quarantine of on-farm labour or the producer due to the pandemic, according to a July 9 Ontario government news release. ... [read more]
Saskatchewan looking to big rooms to accommodate September jury trials
Friday, July 10, 2020 @ 12:31 PM
Ballrooms, convention centres and large arts facilities are being eyed as potential venues for the scheduled resumption of criminal jury trials in Saskatchewan this fall, says one of the province’s top judges. ... [read more]
Ottawa changes law to allow non-biological Canadian parents to pass citizenship to their children 
Friday, July 10, 2020 @ 9:06 AM
The federal government is amending Canada’s citizenship law to rectify what it characterized as unjust treatment of the LGBTQ2+ community and people experiencing fertility issues. ... [read more]
Proposed Ontario legislation to extend emergency powers raises concerns
Thursday, July 09, 2020 @ 1:45 PM
Opposition parties and civil liberties advocates say they will be watching closely to see if the Ontario government’s extension of emergency powers opens the way for abuse of power. ... [read more]
