Bill S-223 explained in plain English
An Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code and to make consequential changes to other Acts
Federal Parliament bill summary, status, timeline, sponsor, votes, and official sources.
At a glance
Official Parliament of Canada snapshot for 42nd Parliament, 1st Session. MP vote breakdowns appear when the House of Commons publishes a recorded division export for that bill. Senate and House stage details include official debate/sitting links when LEGISinfo publishes them.
Our plain-language take, written for civic education.
Source: By PoliticalData.ca
This bill amends the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code to change firearm registration to inscription, alter firearm definitions, and modify transportation and storage rules for certain firearms.
This bill, titled the Strengthening Canadians’ Security and Promoting Hunting and Recreational Shooting Act, proposes changes to the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code. Key changes include replacing the concept of firearm registration with firearms inscription, restricting where firearms must be kept, and altering definitions related to firearms. It also aims to tighten rules for transporting firearms that are not hunting firearms. The bill also makes consequential amendments to other related acts.
- Changes the system of firearm registration to a system of firearm inscription.
- Modifies definitions of firearms, including introducing the term 'circumscribed firearm' and changing definitions of 'hunting firearm', 'prohibited firearm', and 'restricted firearm'.
- Restricts the locations where certain firearms (prohibited and circumscribed) can be possessed.
- Introduces new rules for the transportation of firearms.
- Makes consequential amendments to other federal acts.
- Requires a comprehensive review of the Firearms Act every five years.
- Repeals the definitions of 'non-restricted firearm', 'registration certificate', and 'restricted firearm' from the Criminal Code.
- Amends the definition of 'prohibited firearm' in the Criminal Code.
- Adds the definition of 'circumscribed firearm' and 'hunting firearm' to the Criminal Code.
- Modifies provisions within the Firearms Act related to licences, inscription certificates, authorizations, and their issuance, transfer, and revocation.
- Amends provisions in the Criminal Code related to the unauthorized possession, transfer, and use of various types of firearms.
- Amends the Defence Production Act to reflect the new terminology.
- Amends the National Defence Act to reflect the new terminology.
- Introduces transitional provisions for individuals possessing certain firearms when the act comes into force.
- Includes coordinating amendments with the Common Sense Firearms Licensing Act.
- Specifies the commencement date for the Act.
- Firearms owners
- Businesses involved in importing, manufacturing, or selling firearms
- Law enforcement agencies
- Federal government departments (e.g., Registrar of Firearms, Royal Canadian Mounted Police)
- Parliamentary committees
- Individuals subject to prohibition orders
- Non-residents importing firearms
- Individuals must possess an inscription certificate for prohibited or circumscribed firearms.
- New requirements for transporting firearms are established.
- Specific locations are mandated for possessing prohibited and circumscribed firearms.
- Businesses importing prohibited or circumscribed firearms must provide specified information.
- Parliamentary committees are mandated to conduct regular reviews of the Firearms Act.
- This Act comes into force one year after the day on which it receives royal assent (Section 116).
- The commencement day is referenced in various sections for transitional purposes (e.g., Sections 8(1), 8(2), 114).
- The bill refers to 'prescribed fees' for licences, inscription certificates, and authorizations, indicating potential costs for individuals and businesses (Section 54(1)).
- Section 95 of the Firearms Act is amended to provide for payment of compensation by Canada to provinces for administrative costs related to processing licences, inscription certificates, authorizations, and operating the Canadian Firearms Inscription System.
- The bill amends various sections of the Criminal Code to define offences and prescribe punishments for violations related to firearms, including unauthorized possession, transfer, and use.
- Specific offences are outlined for contravening conditions of licences or inscription certificates, failure to deliver up revoked certificates, and making false statements.
- Minimum and maximum imprisonment terms are specified for certain firearm-related offences.
- Prohibition orders may be issued, requiring surrender of firearms and related documents.
- The bill uses terms like 'prescribed form', 'prescribed information', and 'prescribed fees', indicating that specific details will be determined by regulations which are not included in the bill text.
- The bill refers to a 'commencement day' in several transitional provisions, but the exact date is dependent on the Act receiving royal assent and coming into force one year later, as well as potential coordinating amendments.
- The specific 'circumscribed firearms safety course' and its instructors are to be approved by the federal Minister and designated by a chief firearms officer, respectively, with details likely to be set out in regulations.
- The bill does not specify the exact date when Section 28 of the Firearms Act comes into force relative to Section 10 of the Common Sense Firearms Licensing Act, which affects how Section 42.2 of the Firearms Act is implemented.
This bill significantly amends the Firearms Act to replace the registration system with an inscription system, change definitions of firearms, alter rules for possession, transportation, and transfer of firearms, and update related administrative procedures.
Source: SUMMARY
This bill amends the Criminal Code to change definitions related to firearms, including introducing 'circumscribed firearm', modifying 'prohibited firearm', and altering definitions of 'restricted firearm' and 'hunting firearm'. It also modifies various offences related to firearms possession, transfer, and use.
Source: SUMMARY
Ensures that words and expressions used in the Firearms Act continue to have the meanings assigned by the Criminal Code, unless otherwise specified.
Source: 2
Updates the purpose of the Act to include inscription certificates for prohibited firearms or circumscribed firearms, replacing registration certificates for prohibited or restricted firearms.
Source: 3
Modifies the eligibility criteria for a 60-day licence for non-residents to possess hunting firearms, allowing chiefs of firearms officers more discretion.
Source: 4
Changes the requirement for obtaining a licence for prohibited firearms or circumscribed firearms to successfully completing a 'circumscribed firearms safety course' instead of a 'restricted firearms safety course'.
Source: 5(1)
Requires successful completion of a 'circumscribed firearms safety course' for eligibility to hold a licence for circumscribed firearms after a prohibition order expires.
Source: 5(2)
Amends the eligibility for a 60-day licence for non-residents to possess hunting firearms.
Source: 5(3)
Prohibits individuals under 18 from holding licences for prohibited or circumscribed firearms.
Source: 6
Changes the requirement for business eligibility for a licence to include eligibility for acquiring circumscribed firearms, replacing restricted firearms.
Source: 7(1)
Modifies employee licensing requirements for businesses, requiring licences for acquiring circumscribed firearms instead of restricted firearms for employees handling prohibited firearms.
Source: 7(2)
Refers to an 'inscription certificate' instead of a 'registration certificate' for eligibility for certain licences.
Source: 8(1)
Refers to an 'inscription certificate' instead of a 'registration certificate' for eligibility for certain licences.
Source: 8(2)
Refers to an 'inscription certificate' instead of a 'registration certificate' for eligibility for certain licences.
Source: 8(3)
Refers to an 'inscription certificate' instead of a 'registration certificate' for eligibility for certain licences.
Source: 8(4)
Refers to an 'inscription certificate' instead of a 'registration certificate' for eligibility for certain licences.
Source: 8(5)
Refers to an 'inscription certificate' instead of a 'registration certificate' for eligibility for certain licences.
Source: 8(6)
Adds a provision stating that 'inscription certificate' includes a 'registration certificate' as it read before the current amendments, for specific purposes.
Source: 8(7)
Changes the heading from 'Registration Certificates' to 'Inscription Certificates' and specifies that inscription certificates can only be issued for prohibited or circumscribed firearms.
Source: 9
Changes the requirement for holding an inscription certificate to possessing a licence authorizing the possession of the firearm, replacing the requirement for a registration certificate.
Source: 9
States that an inscription certificate may only be issued for a firearm, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 10
States that an inscription certificate may not be issued for firearms owned by the Crown, provinces, or police forces, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 11
States that an inscription certificate for a firearm may be issued to only one person, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 12
Changes the rules for where prohibited or circumscribed firearms can be possessed, requiring them to be kept at a shooting club or storage facility recorded in the Canadian Firearms Registry, or at a dwelling-house under specific conditions. This replaces rules for restricted firearms.
Source: 13
Modifies the reasons for which an individual holding a licence can transport prohibited or circumscribed firearms.
Source: 14(1)
Updates reasons for transporting firearms, referencing 'circumscribed firearms safety course' and allowing transport for inscription or disposal, replacing 'restricted firearms safety course' and registration.
Source: 14(2)
Introduces new provisions for automatic authorization to transport firearms upon licence renewal or transfer, with exceptions, and clarifies rules for non-residents transporting circumscribed firearms.
Source: 14(3)
Establishes that only a carrier may transport prohibited or circumscribed firearms mentioned in section 19.
Source: 15
Allows authorization for possessing circumscribed firearms or specific handguns at locations other than the authorized place for life protection or professional use.
Source: 16
Changes the condition for transferring a 'hunting firearm' instead of a 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 17
Modifies the conditions for transferring a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, requiring a new inscription certificate.
Source: 18(1)
Specifies that a new inscription certificate must be issued for the firearm, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 18(2)
States that if the Registrar refuses to issue an inscription certificate, they must inform the chief firearms officer, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 18(3)
Allows transfer of prohibited or circumscribed firearms to the Crown, provinces, police, or municipalities, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 19
Updates the verification process for chief firearms officers regarding proposed transfers of prohibited or circumscribed firearms, and circumscribed firearms specifically.
Source: 20(1)
Requires verification of purpose for acquiring a circumscribed firearm, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 20(2)
Modifies the conditions under which a chief firearms officer can approve the transfer of a circumscribed firearm or specific handguns.
Source: 21
Relates to knowledge of characteristics of circumscribed firearms or specific handguns for collection purposes, replacing 'restricted firearms'.
Source: 22(1)
Relates to inspection and other requirements for keeping circumscribed firearms or specific handguns, replacing 'restricted firearms'.
Source: 22(2)
States that the Registrar may issue a new inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 23(1)
States that the Registrar shall revoke an inscription certificate for firearms transferred to the Crown or police, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 23(2)
Refers to lending an 'inscription certificate' for a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, replacing 'registration certificate' for a prohibited or restricted firearm.
Source: 24
Refers to lending an 'inscription certificate' for a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, replacing 'registration certificate' for a prohibited or restricted firearm.
Source: 25
Requires production of an authorization to transport a 'circumscribed firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 26(1)
Changes the condition for importing a 'hunting firearm' instead of a 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 26(3)
States that a confirmed declaration has the effect of an inscription certificate for a circumscribed firearm, replacing 'registration certificate' for a restricted firearm.
Source: 27
Introduces an obligation for businesses importing prohibited or circumscribed firearms to provide specific information to the Registrar and customs officers.
Source: 28
Changes the heading from 'Licences, Registration Certificates and Authorizations' to 'Licences, Inscription Certificates and Authorizations'.
Source: 29
Includes 'inscription certificate' in the types of documents that can be issued upon application, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 30(1)
Specifies that applications for inscription certificates are made to the Registrar, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 30(2)
Refers to 'circumscribed firearms' instead of 'restricted firearms' in the context of applications for licences related to pre-commencement firearms.
Source: 30(5)
States that an authorization holder need not be the issuer of the inscription certificate for a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, replacing 'registration certificate' for a prohibited or restricted firearm.
Source: 31
Assigns responsibility to the Registrar for issuing inscription certificates for prohibited and circumscribed firearms, replacing 'registration certificates' for prohibited and restricted firearms.
Source: 32
States that an inscription certificate must be issued in the prescribed form, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 33
Includes 'inscription certificates' as non-transferable documents, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 34
Includes 'inscription certificates' as documents valid throughout Canada, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 35
Refers to an authorization to transport a prohibited firearm (except automatic) or a circumscribed firearm, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 36
States that an inscription certificate for a prohibited or circumscribed firearm expires when the holder ceases to be the owner, replacing 'registration certificate' for a prohibited or restricted firearm.
Source: 37
Refers to the renewal of licences for circumscribed firearms or specific handguns, and their use for purposes described in section 28, replacing 'restricted firearms'.
Source: 38(1)
Refers to a chief firearms officer's decision regarding circumscribed firearms or specific handguns not being used for purposes described in section 28, replacing 'restricted firearms'.
Source: 38(2)
States that the Registrar may refuse to issue an inscription certificate for any good and sufficient reason, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 39
Allows the Registrar to revoke an inscription certificate for a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, replacing 'registration certificate' for a prohibited or restricted firearm.
Source: 40(1)
Mentions the Registrar's decision to refuse or revoke an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 41(1)
Refers to the revocation of an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 41(2)
Specifies that a notice regarding an inscription certificate for a prohibited or circumscribed firearm must outline a period for lawful disposal, replacing 'registration certificate' for a prohibited or restricted firearm.
Source: 41(3)
Refers to the Registrar refusing to issue or revoking an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 42(1)
Refers to the applicant or holder of an inscription certificate in the appeal process, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 42(2)
Refers to the applicant or holder of an inscription certificate in the notice of hearing for an appeal, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 43(1)
Refers to the refusal to issue or revocation of an inscription certificate in the burden of proof for an appeal, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 43(2)
Directs the Registrar to issue an inscription certificate or cancel its revocation, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 44
Refers to the applicant or holder of an inscription certificate in the appeal process, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 45
Refers to the applicant or holder of an inscription certificate in the service of appeal notices, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 46
Directs the Registrar to issue an inscription certificate or cancel its revocation, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 47
Changes the heading from 'Canadian Firearms Registration System' to 'Canadian Firearms Inscription System'.
Source: 48
Changes the title of the Registrar of Firearms to 'Directeur de l’immatriculation des armes à feu' (Firearms Inscription Director) in the French version of the Act.
Source: 49
Updates the registry to include records of inscription certificates for prohibited or circumscribed firearms, replacing 'registration certificates' for prohibited or restricted firearms.
Source: 50
Requires chief firearms officers to inform the Registrar of reports concerning the loss, finding, theft, or destruction of prohibited or circumscribed firearms, replacing 'restricted firearms'.
Source: 51
Refers to processing 'inscription certificates' and the 'Canadian Firearms Inscription System', replacing 'registration certificates' and the 'Canadian Firearms Registration System'.
Source: 52
States that the issuance of a licence or inscription certificate does not affect obligations under other firearm-related laws, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 53
Empowers inspectors to demand production of firearms, including verifying that the holder possesses an inscription certificate for prohibited or circumscribed firearms, replacing 'registration certificate' for prohibited or restricted firearms.
Source: 54
Makes it an offence to make false statements to procure a licence or inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 55
Refers to an inscription certificate as a document that cannot be falsified, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 56
Makes it an offence to contravene a condition of an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 57
Makes it an offence to fail to surrender a revoked inscription certificate for a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, replacing 'registration certificate' for a prohibited or restricted firearm.
Source: 58
Allows regulations for the issuance of inscription certificates, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 59(1)
Allows regulations for the revocation of inscription certificates, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 59(2)
Prescribes fees for inscription certificates, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 59(3)
States that a permit deemed a licence authorizes possession of hunting firearms, replacing 'non-restricted firearms'.
Source: 60
Requires a comprehensive review of the Firearms Act every five years by a designated parliamentary committee, which must then report to Parliament with recommendations.
Source: 61
Updates definitions to include 'circumscribed firearm' and 'hunting firearm', and to link 'inscription certificate' with the Firearms Act, replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'registration certificate'.
Source: 62
Requires the surrender of inscriptions certificates, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 63
Removes the definitions of 'non-restricted firearm', 'registration certificate', and 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 64(1)
Amends the definition of 'prohibited firearm' by adding a new category that includes any firearm not classified as a hunting or circumscribed firearm.
Source: 64(2)
Inserts new definitions for 'circumscribed firearm' and 'hunting firearm', and 'inscription certificate'.
Source: 64(3)
Refers to possessing an inscription certificate for a firearm, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 64(4)
Makes it an offence to possess a prohibited or circumscribed firearm without an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 65(2)
Refers to possessing a prohibited or circumscribed firearm with an inscription certificate, replacing 'prohibited or restricted firearm' with 'registration certificate'.
Source: 65(3)
Makes it an offence to possess a prohibited or circumscribed firearm while knowing one is not the holder of an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 66(2)
Refers to possessing a prohibited or circumscribed firearm with an inscription certificate, replacing 'prohibited or restricted firearm' with 'registration certificate'.
Source: 66(3)
Refers to possessing prohibited or circumscribed firearms under an authorization or licence, replacing 'restricted firearms'.
Source: 67
Specifies requirements for possessing a prohibited or circumscribed firearm in a motor vehicle, including an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 68
Requires an inscription certificate for possessing a loaded or unloaded prohibited or circumscribed firearm with ammunition, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 69(2)
Amends the list of items subject to weapons trafficking offences to include 'circumscribed firearm' and 'hunting firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 70(1)
Updates the punishment for weapons trafficking offences involving a 'circumscribed firearm' or 'hunting firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 70(2)
Amends the offence of possession for the purpose of weapons trafficking to include 'circumscribed firearm' and 'hunting firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 71(1)
Updates the punishment for possession for weapons trafficking offences involving a 'circumscribed firearm' or 'hunting firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 71(2)
Amends the offence of unauthorized firearm transfer to include 'circumscribed firearm' and 'hunting firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 72
Amends the offence of importing or exporting to include 'circumscribed firearm' and 'hunting firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 73(1)
Updates the punishment for importing or exporting offences involving a 'circumscribed firearm' or 'hunting firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 73(2)
Amends the offence of importing or exporting to include 'circumscribed firearm' and 'hunting firearm', replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'non-restricted firearm'.
Source: 74
Refers to reporting the loss or finding of a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, replacing 'restricted firearm'. Also requires surrendering an inscription certificate.
Source: 75
Refers to reporting the destruction of a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 76
Refers to making false reports concerning the loss, theft, or destruction of a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, replacing 'restricted firearm'. Also refers to inscription certificates.
Source: 77
Allows possession of a prohibited or circumscribed firearm with an altered serial number if a new serial number is issued and an inscription certificate is obtained, replacing 'restricted firearm' and 'registration certificate'.
Source: 78
Includes offences related to possession of prohibited or circumscribed firearms with ammunition, replacing 'restricted firearms'.
Source: 79(1)
Specifies the duration of prohibition orders related to firearms, including 'circumscribed firearms', replacing 'restricted firearms'.
Source: 79(2)
Allows for the issuance of an inscription certificate (instead of a registration certificate) for sustenance or employment purposes under specific conditions, even with a prohibition order.
Source: 80(2)
States that an inscription certificate may not be denied solely based on a prohibition order, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 80(3)
Requires surrender of inscription certificates in relation to prohibition orders, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 81
States that authorizations, licences, and inscription certificates relating to prohibited items are revoked or amended when a prohibition order takes effect, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 82(1)
Specifies that authorizations, licences, and inscription certificates relating to items prohibited by a section 515 order are revoked or amended only for the duration of that order, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 82(2)
Makes it an offence to fail to surrender an inscription certificate when required by an order, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 83
Requires production of an inscription certificate for prohibited or circumscribed firearms upon demand by a peace officer, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 84(1)
States that if a person claims a seized item and produces an authorization and inscription certificate for a prohibited or circumscribed firearm, it shall be returned, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 84(2)
Allows seizure of inscription certificates in relation to weapons, prohibited devices, etc., when it's not desirable for a person to possess them, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 85(1)
Allows seizure of inscription certificates without a warrant under specific circumstances, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 85(1)
States that inscription certificates are revoked if they cannot be seized along with the firearm, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 85(2)
Allows a justice to order the reversal of revocation and restoration of an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 86
Clarifies that individuals holding licences for circumscribed firearms and employed by businesses with licences for prohibited firearms are not guilty of certain offences.
Source: 87
States that the onus is on the accused to prove they hold an inscription certificate, replacing 'registration certificate'.
Source: 88
Treats documents purporting to be inscription certificates as evidence, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 88
Modifies the Governor in Council's power to prescribe firearms as hunting firearms, requiring them to be reasonable for hunting use in Canada.
Source: 89(1)
Repeals provisions that deemed certain firearms not to be prohibited or restricted if prescribed as non-restricted or restricted, respectively.
Source: 89(2)
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of murder attempts, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 90
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of certain offences, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 91
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of certain offences, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 92
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of certain offences, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 93
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of aggravated sexual assault, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 94
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of certain offences, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 95
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of hostage-taking, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 96
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of robbery, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 97
Refers to the use of a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm in the commission of extortion, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 98
Refers to aggravated sexual assault involving a circumscribed firearm or prohibited firearm, replacing 'restricted firearm'.
Source: 99
Requires surrender of inscription certificates as a condition of release, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 100
Requires surrender of inscription certificates as a condition of release, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 101
Requires surrender of inscription certificates when a condition is added to an order, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 102
Requires surrender of inscription certificates when a condition is added to a recognizance, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 103
Specifies how inscription certificates are to be surrendered, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 104
Specifies how inscription certificates are to be surrendered, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 105
Specifies how inscription certificates are to be surrendered, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 106
Specifies how inscription certificates are to be surrendered, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 107
Specifies how inscription certificates are to be surrendered, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 108
Requires surrender of inscription certificates as part of an undertaking, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 109
Removes the definition of 'restricted firearm' from the Schedule.
Source: 110(1)
Adds the definition of 'circumscribed firearm' to the Schedule, referencing the Criminal Code.
Source: 110(2)
Refers to 'circumscribed firearm' instead of 'restricted firearm' in an exception list.
Source: 111
Requires surrender of inscription certificates in relation to prohibition orders, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 112
States that authorizations, licences, and inscription certificates relating to prohibited items are revoked or amended when a prohibition order takes effect, replacing 'registration certificates'.
Source: 113
Introduces coordinating amendments related to the timing of the coming into force of provisions concerning the import of firearms by businesses.
Source: 115
Generated using AI from official bill text. Not legal advice. It is written by PoliticalData.ca for civic education, automatically checked and spot-reviewed before publishing.
Official textParliamentary Process
Bill S-223, concerning amendments to firearms legislation, completed its first reading in the Senate on April 12, 2016, proceeded to second reading, but was later dropped from the Order Paper.
This record shows that on April 12, 2016, Bill S-223 received its first reading in the Senate. Later, on April 19, 2016, it proceeded to second reading, with a sponsor's speech delivered on June 21, 2016. The bill was ultimately dropped from the Senate's Order Paper on November 3, 2016, meaning it did not proceed further.
On April 12, 2016, the Senate welcomed new members, discussed various national and international topics, and introduced Bill S-223 for first reading.
This artifact details the proceedings of the Senate on April 12, 2016. The Senate welcomed seven new senators, with speeches from the Leader of the Opposition and the Leader of the Senate Liberals introducing them and discussing their backgrounds and the role of the Senate. Various other matters were addressed, including a tribute to a retiring staff member, discussions on Canada-Singapore relations, Parkinson's Awareness Month, and tributes to historical figures. Procedurally, Bill S-223, "An Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code and to make consequential changes to other Acts," was introduced and received first reading. Other legislative business included debates on bills related to genetic non-discrimination, international fraud, and protection of children against violence, as well as committee reports and procedural motions regarding Senate rules and question period.
Bill S-223, concerning amendments to firearms legislation, reached the Second Reading stage in the Senate before being dropped from the Order Paper.
This record indicates that Bill S-223, an Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code, reached the Second Reading stage in the Senate on April 19, 2016. A sponsor's speech was given on this date. The bill was ultimately dropped from the Senate Order Paper on November 3, 2016, meaning it was not further proceeded with.
During a Senate sitting on April 19, 2016, Senator Céline Hervieux-Payette introduced Bill S-223 at second reading, detailing its measures to enhance gun control and promote safe hunting, before the debate was adjourned.
This artifact is a record of a sitting of the Senate on April 19, 2016, during which debate occurred concerning Bill S-223, an Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code. The bill's sponsor, Senator Céline Hervieux-Payette, introduced the bill at second reading, explaining its purpose, which includes strengthening Canadian security and promoting hunting and recreational shooting. She outlined seven key measures in the bill, such as prohibiting most firearms from being kept in dwelling-houses, redefining firearm categories, and restricting the use and storage of certain firearms to shooting clubs. Senator Hervieux-Payette also highlighted differences between Canadian and U.S. firearms laws and referenced international examples. The debate on Bill S-223 was adjourned. The sitting also included discussions on other matters, such as the role of independent senators, government representative titles, and committee budgets.
During the Senate's Second Reading debate on Bill S-223, the sponsor introduced the bill, explaining its proposed changes to firearm regulations aimed at increasing public safety and supporting lawful gun use, before the debate was adjourned.
On April 19, 2016, the Senate was in its Second Reading stage for Bill S-223. This artifact contains the transcript of the debate during this stage, which includes the sponsor's speech introducing the bill. The discussion focused on the bill's proposed amendments to the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code, aiming to enhance public safety while supporting hunting and recreational shooting. The debate also touched upon broader issues such as the history of gun control in Canada, comparisons with firearm laws in the United States and the United Kingdom, and the perceived impact of lobbying groups. The stage was not completed, as the debate was adjourned.
On June 21, 2016, the Senate held a sitting that included tributes, statements, routine proceedings, question period with the Minister of Agriculture, and debates and votes on multiple bills and committee reports, before adjourning.
The Senate met on June 21, 2016. The sitting included tributes to departing pages, statements on various topics including care for veterans and National Aboriginal Day, and routine proceedings such as the presentation of committee reports and notices of motion. Question Period involved the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food discussing internal trade barriers, international trade agreements, and regulations affecting the agricultural sector. The Senate then proceeded to debate and third reading of several bills, including those related to copyright, public service labour relations, budget implementation, and appropriation acts. Other debates covered official languages, Canadian public corporations governance, national anthem amendments, and international human rights issues. Several committee reports were adopted. The sitting concluded with ongoing debates on various bills and motions.
Bill S-223, concerning amendments to firearms legislation, did not reach the third reading stage in the Senate and was ultimately removed from the Order Paper.
This record indicates that Bill S-223, which aimed to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code, did not proceed further in the Senate. Specifically, the stage for the Senate's third reading of the bill was marked as 'Not reached'. The bill was removed from the Senate's Order Paper on November 3, 2016.
Bill S-223, concerning amendments to firearms legislation and the Criminal Code, was introduced in the House of Commons but did not proceed past First Reading, having previously been initiated in the Senate.
This record indicates that Bill S-223, an Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code, reached the First Reading stage in the House of Commons but was not proceeded with. The bill was dropped from the Senate Order Paper on November 3, 2016. In the Senate, it had its First Reading on April 12, 2016, and Second Reading on April 19, 2016, with a sponsor's speech on June 21, 2016.
Bill S-223, an Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code, did not proceed past the Senate stages and was not considered at the Second Reading stage in the House of Commons.
This record indicates that Bill S-223, concerning amendments to the Firearms Act and Criminal Code, did not proceed to the House of Commons Second Reading stage. The bill was removed from the Senate's order of business on November 3, 2016. While it had a First Reading in the Senate on April 12, 2016, and a Second Reading on April 19, 2016, the subsequent stage in the House of Commons was not reached.
Bill S-223, an Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code, did not proceed past the Senate stage and has not reached consideration in a House of Commons committee.
This artifact describes the legislative stage for Bill S-223 in the House of Commons. Specifically, it indicates that the stage 'House of Commons Consideration in committee' has not yet been reached. The bill was removed from the Senate's agenda on November 3, 2016, and had its first reading in the Senate on April 12, 2016, and second reading on April 19, 2016. A sponsor's speech was given on June 21, 2016. The status indicates the bill was not proceeded with.
Bill S-223, concerning amendments to firearm laws, reached the House of Commons Report stage but was not proceeded with and was later dropped from the Senate Order Paper.
This artifact indicates that Bill S-223, an Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code, reached the House of Commons Report stage but did not proceed further. The bill was ultimately dropped from the Senate Order Paper on November 3, 2016. Information on debates or speeches related to this bill is available from its First and Second Reading in the Senate in April and June 2016.
This artifact describes the procedural status of Bill S-223 in the House of Commons as having 'Third reading' as a stage that was 'Not reached', and notes the bill was dropped from the Senate Order Paper.
The official record indicates that Bill S-223, An Act to amend the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code and to make consequential changes to other Acts, was listed for a stage in the House of Commons called 'Third reading'. However, the 'Stage state' is noted as 'Not reached'. The bill was also 'dropped from the Senate Order Paper' on November 3, 2016. Information about first and second reading in the Senate, including the date of second reading and a major speech, is also provided. This artifact does not contain the text of the bill itself, only procedural information.
Debate and sitting links point to official parliamentary sources when LEGISinfo publishes them. Any plain-language discussion summaries should be generated from those official texts and reviewed before public display.
Vote Summary
This bill is still active. We only show vote counts after the legislature publishes a recorded division.
No published representative vote breakdown
This bill is still moving through the process. When a recorded division is published, representative positions can be listed here.
Official sources
Status, sponsor, votes, and timeline on this page are drawn from these official legislative sources and public records. Each summary above is attributed to its own source.
How this data is sourced