Bill S-239 explained in plain English
An Act to amend the Canada Elections Act (eliminating foreign funding)
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
Bill S-239 amends the Canada Elections Act to expand restrictions on foreign interference in Canadian elections by prohibiting non-residents from inducing voters, banning third parties from accepting foreign contributions for election-related purposes, and introducing additional penalties.
Bill S-239 is about preventing foreign interference in Canadian elections. The bill makes several changes to the Canada Elections Act: First, it strengthens the rule that non-residents (people who don't live in Canada) cannot try to influence how Canadians vote. The bill clarifies that this includes indirect methods, such as giving money to someone else specifically to get them to influence voters. Second, it creates a new rule that third parties (such as advocacy groups or organizations) cannot accept money or loans from foreign sources for any purpose related to an election. Foreign sources include non-citizens, non-permanent residents, foreign corporations, foreign trade unions, foreign political parties, foreign governments, foreign trusts, and partnerships where any member is not resident in Canada. Third, the bill expands the existing list of who counts as a "foreign source" to include trusts that are not resident in Canada and partnerships or joint ventures where any member is not resident in Canada. Fourth, the bill makes it a criminal offence for third parties to accept foreign contributions for election purposes. The punishment includes a fine equal to the amount of the foreign contribution that was wrongly accepted. The bill becomes law one year after it receives royal assent, unless the Governor in Council chooses an earlier date.
- Amends section 331 of the Canada Elections Act to expand the prohibition on non-residents inducing electors, making it clear this includes promoting or opposing political parties or candidates
- Adds section 331.01 to clarify that 'inducing' voters includes making a contribution to someone for the purpose of causing them to induce voters
- Adds section 331.02 to prohibit third parties from accepting contributions or loans from foreign sources for any election-related purpose
- Adds section 331.03 to clarify that loans are treated as contributions under sections 331.01 and 331.02
- Expands section 358 to add trusts not resident in Canada and partnerships/joint ventures with non-resident members to the list of foreign sources whose contributions third parties cannot use for election advertising
- Amends subsection 495(1) to make it an offence for third parties to contravene section 331.02 by accepting foreign contributions
- Adds subsection 500(7) to impose an additional fine on third parties convicted of accepting foreign contributions, equal to the amount of the foreign contribution accepted
- Non-residents of Canada who may be prohibited from influencing Canadian elections
- Third parties (such as advocacy groups, political organizations, or interest groups) that may not accept foreign funding for election-related activities
- Foreign sources including non-citizens, non-permanent residents, foreign corporations, foreign trade unions, foreign political parties, foreign governments, foreign trusts, and partnerships with non-resident members
- Canadian citizens and voters, through enhanced protections against foreign interference in elections
- Third parties are prohibited from accepting contributions or loans from any foreign source for any purposes related to an election
- Non-residents are prohibited from inducing Canadian electors to vote or refrain from voting, or to vote for a particular candidate or political party
- Third parties cannot use foreign contributions for election advertising purposes
- The definition of 'induce' includes making a financial contribution to someone else for the purpose of causing them to influence voters
- The Act comes into force on the first anniversary of the day on which it receives royal assent, or on an earlier date if fixed by order of the Governor in Council (section 7)
- Third parties convicted of accepting foreign contributions may face a fine equal to the amount of the foreign contribution accepted
- Third parties that accept foreign contributions for election purposes commit an offence under section 495(1)(d)
- In addition to regular punishment under subsection 500(1), third parties convicted of accepting foreign contributions are liable to a fine equal to the amount of the foreign contribution accepted (subsection 500(7))
- The bill text does not specify the definition of 'third party' directly in the amendments; it refers to section 348.01 of the Canada Elections Act, which is not provided
- The bill text does not define 'election-related purpose' or 'purposes related to an election' with specificity
- The bill does not specify what other punishments under subsection 500(1) apply to third parties convicted under section 495(1)(d), only that an additional fine is imposed
- The exact date of commencement is not fixed; it depends on either one year after royal assent or an earlier date chosen by the Governor in Council
- The bill does not specify how 'residency' is determined for trusts, partnerships, or other entities
Expanded to clarify that non-residents cannot induce voters in any way in relation to an election, including by promoting or opposing a political party or candidate
Source: Section 2
List of foreign sources expanded to include trusts not resident in Canada and partnerships/joint ventures with non-resident members
Source: Section 4
Added a new offence: third parties contravening section 331.02 by accepting foreign contributions
Source: Section 5
New subsection 500(7) added to impose an additional fine on third parties equal to the amount of foreign contributions wrongly accepted
Source: Section 6
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-239, concerning amendments to the Canada Elections Act regarding foreign funding, completed its first and second readings in the Senate and was referred to committee.
This artifact details the procedural steps for Bill S-239 in the Senate. The bill had its first reading on May 30, 2017, and its second reading on June 1, 2017. Speeches related to the second reading occurred on multiple dates in late 2017 and early 2018. The bill was then referred to a committee on June 5, 2018, and is currently at the consideration in committee stage. This record outlines procedural events and does not contain the full text of the bill.
On May 30, 2017, the Senate introduced Bill S-239 for first reading and engaged in debates on various other legislative items and government matters.
On May 30, 2017, the Senate convened and the following occurred: The Senate held its first reading for Bill S-239, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act, which aims to eliminate foreign funding. This procedural step means the bill was formally introduced and read aloud for the first time. The Senate also debated other bills, presented committee reports, and engaged in Question Period on various government matters. Specific discussions included the Senate's Symposium 150, the election of a new leader for the Conservative Party, and updates on national defence policy and refugee resettlement.
Bill S-239 completed its second reading in the Senate and was referred to committee on June 5, 2018, following several recorded speeches.
This record outlines the procedural steps for Bill S-239 in the Senate. The bill underwent second reading on June 1, 2017, followed by major speeches on multiple dates in late 2017 and early 2018. The process included a sponsor's speech on June 1, 2017, and a response speech on November 2, 2017. The bill was completed at the second reading stage and referred to a committee on June 5, 2018. The bill's status is currently 'At consideration in committee in the Senate'.
During a Senate sitting on June 1, 2017, Senators discussed various committee reports and other matters before engaging in the second reading debate of Bill S-239, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act regarding foreign funding, which was subsequently adjourned.
This document records the proceedings of the Senate on June 1, 2017. It includes various procedural matters such as the tabling of committee reports, notices of motions, and statements by Senators on diverse topics like the Phoenix pay system, Truth and Reconciliation, and the cod moratorium. A significant portion of the record details the debate at second reading of Bill S-239, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act concerning foreign funding. The debate concluded with the adjournment of the debate.
The Senate began the second reading debate for Bill S-239, which aims to eliminate foreign funding in Canadian elections, with Senator Linda Frum presenting the bill, after which the debate was adjourned.
This document records the proceedings of the Senate on Thursday, June 1, 2017. While it covers various topics including statements on the Phoenix pay system, truth and reconciliation, and tributes to individuals, the part relevant to Bill S-239 is the adjournment of the debate on its second reading. Senator Linda Frum moved second reading of Bill S-239, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act (eliminating foreign funding), and spoke about the need to close loopholes that allow foreign entities to influence Canadian elections. Following her speech, the debate was adjourned, meaning further discussion on the bill will occur at a later date.
During a Senate sitting on October 3, 2017, the debate on Bill S-239, concerning amendments to the Canada Elections Act, was continued and adjourned.
On October 3, 2017, the Senate of Canada convened for a sitting that included tributes, routine proceedings, orders of the day, and question period. Notably, the debate on Bill S-239, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act concerning foreign funding, was continued and adjourned.
The Senate continued its debate on Bill S-239 at second reading, discussing the implications of eliminating foreign funding in elections, while also honouring Senator Kelvin Kenneth Ogilvie's retirement.
On November 2, 2017, the Senate continued its debate on Bill S-239, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act concerning foreign funding. The debate focused on the bill's purpose, its potential effectiveness, and its unintended consequences. Senators discussed whether the bill would truly eliminate foreign influence, if it would create an unfair advantage for certain voices, and if it provided sufficient clarity for third parties. Concerns were also raised about its potential impact on Canadians living abroad and whether it adequately modernized the Elections Act for the digital age. The debate included extensive tributes to Senator Kelvin Kenneth Ogilvie, who was retiring.
During Senate debate on Bill S-239 to amend the Canada Elections Act regarding foreign funding, senators discussed its effectiveness, potential unintended consequences, and the broader issue of foreign influence in elections.
This document records a debate in the Senate on November 2, 2017, concerning Bill S-239, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act (eliminating foreign funding). The debate focused on the bill's proposed changes to rules regarding third-party involvement and funding in elections. Senator Ratna Omidvar spoke about the bill, raising questions about the extent of consultations, whether the bill effectively addresses foreign influence, potential unintended consequences for charities and advocacy groups, and its impact on Canadians living abroad. She noted that while the bill aims to prevent foreign funding, foreign influence could persist through other means, particularly online. Other Senators also spoke, generally supporting the bill's intent to reduce foreign funding but acknowledging the complexity of the issue and the need for further consideration.
During a Senate sitting on December 8, 2017, debate on Bill S-239 regarding foreign funding in elections continued, alongside other routine proceedings, committee work, and debates on various legislative matters.
The Senate convened on December 8, 2017. This sitting included routine proceedings, question period, and orders of the day. Notably, a debate on Bill S-239, an Act to amend the Canada Elections Act regarding foreign funding, continued. During the sitting, the Senate also received certificates and biographical notes for the nominee for Senate Ethics Officer, resolved into a Committee of the Whole to receive the nominee, and gave notice of a motion to approve the appointment. Discussions also occurred regarding tax avoidance, culture policy, the Disability Tax Credit, and the National Shipbuilding Strategy. Additionally, the Senate heard from a nominee for Commissioner of Lobbying in a Committee of the Whole, debated amendments to the Statistics Act, and continued debate on bills concerning the Criminal Code and transportation.
During a Senate sitting on February 7, 2018, senators debated Bill S-239, aiming to prevent foreign funding in elections, while also addressing other legislative matters and topical issues.
This document summarizes a Senate sitting on February 7, 2018. While the Senate considered various matters including statements on Taiwan, the 2018 Olympic Games, and human rights in Mexico, the primary focus for this summary is the debate at the second reading of Bill S-239. Senators discussed the bill's intent to amend the Canada Elections Act to prevent foreign funding of third-party election activities. Concerns were raised about the bill's scope, potential impact on legitimate advocacy, and whether it adequately addresses broader issues of foreign influence in elections. The sitting also included routine proceedings, question period on various topics, and debates on other bills, including those concerning cannabis legalization and motor vehicle safety.
On May 1, 2018, the Senate conducted routine proceedings, questioned ministers, and debated several bills including those related to Iran, elections, borrowing authority, gender equality, and marine protection, with debates on Bill S-239 and others being adjourned or put to a vote.
This is a record of the Senate sitting on May 1, 2018. The Senate's proceedings included senators' statements on various topics, tabling of committee reports, consideration of messages from the House of Commons regarding amendments to Bill S-5, and debates on several bills including Bill S-219 (concerning Iran-sponsored terrorism), Bill S-239 (concerning foreign funding in elections), Bill S-246 (concerning borrowing authority), Bill C-309 (establishing Gender Equality Week), and Bill C-55 (amending the Oceans Act and Canada Petroleum Resources Act). The sitting also included Question Period with the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and debates on inquiries concerning anti-Black racism and the Silver Alert concept. The debate on Bill S-239 was adjourned. The debate on Bill S-219 proceeded to a vote, which was subsequently adjourned. The sitting concluded with the adjournment of several debates.
During a Senate sitting on June 5, 2018, senators debated and amended the cannabis legalization bill (Bill C-45), addressed issues related to impaired driving (Bill C-46), considered bills on electoral reform and maternity assistance, and discussed various other reports and inquiries.
This Senate sitting on June 5, 2018, included routine proceedings, question period, and debate on several bills. The Senators' Statements covered various topics, including community centre anniversaries, World Environment Day, the Tiananmen Square Massacre, political prisoners in Tibet, and congratulations for an honorary doctorate. Routine proceedings involved tabling reports and notices of motions for committees. Question Period addressed various departmental issues with the Minister of Canadian Heritage. The main debates focused on Bill C-45 (Cannabis Legalization), with amendments proposed and voted on concerning foreign funding, youth criminalization, and plant possession limits. Other debates included Bill C-46 (Impaired Driving), Bill S-239 (Eliminating Foreign Funding), Bill S-243 (Canada Revenue Agency Act amendments), Bill S-247 (International Mother Language Day), Bill C-243 (Maternity Assistance Program), Bill C-377 (Electoral District Name Change), various committee reports, and a motion regarding the appointment of the Clerk of the Senate. The sitting concluded with adjournment.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Consideration in committee yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Report stage yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Third reading yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for First reading yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Second reading yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Consideration in committee yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Report stage yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
We don't have a plain-language summary for Third reading yet. The official source linked below is the full record.
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