Bill S-13 explained in plain English

Bill S-220 amends the Fisheries Act to improve compliance with international fishing agreements, expand enforcement powers, and allow forfeiture of property used in fisheries violations.

Bill S-220 amends the Fisheries Act to strengthen enforcement of international fishing agreements, enhance penalties for illegal activities, and clarify procedures for seizing and forfeiting property related to fisheries violations. Key changes include: 1. Fish Stocks Agreement Compliance (Section 6): Requires the federal government to implement measures to ensure Canada meets its obligations under the Fish Stocks Agreement, an international treaty governing fishery management in the Northwest Atlantic. 2. Protection Officer Authority (Section 9): Grants fisheries protection officers expanded powers to seize vessels, equipment, or fish suspected of being involved in illegal fishing activities. 3. Forfeiture of Property (Section 16.01): Allows the government to forfeit property used in fisheries violations, including vessels and equipment, to deter illegal activities. 4. Information Sharing (Section 16.02): Mandates disclosure of certain information to the Canada Border Services Agency and international organizations to support fisheries enforcement and compliance. 5. Commencement (Section 17): Specifies the bill comes into force on a date set by the Governor in Council, which is not provided in the text.