Understanding Legislation and How a Bill Becomes Law in Canada

Hi everyone, it’s Kristy from Clearly Legal.

Today I want to talk about legislation, and how a bill becomes law.

Legislation is the law. It is the written rules that governs Canada.

When new legislation is proposed, it is introduced in Parliament as a bill. All bills are first introduced in the Senate or in the House of Commons. A bill is brought forward to amend existing laws, repeal laws, or create new laws.

Here is the basic process:

1. First Reading

The bill is introduced.

2. Second Reading

The bill is debated and, if it moves forward, it is sent to a committee.

3. Committee Stage

The committee reviews the bill in detail and proposed changes can be made.

4. Report Stage

The bill is reported back to the House and the text can be further reviewed and amended.

5. Third Reading

The bill is debated again and voted on for adoption.

As, most often, the House of Commons is where the bill was introduced, after the third reading, the bill goes to the Senate for a similar review and the voting process. When it is time, the Speaker calls for a vote.

The bill must be passed in both the House of Commons and the Senate.

If it passes, it proceeds to Royal Assent.

Royal Assent is the formal approval that makes the bill law. In Canada, Royal Assent is granted on behalf of the Crown, typically by the Governor General (or the Governor General's deputy).

Once Royal Assent is given, the law takes effect either:

• immediately, or

• on a future date set out in the legislation

  
  

I have been reviewing legislation since high school. If you need help finding and understanding the legislation that applies to your situation, contact me. It can save you time and money.

Let’s Connect

If you need help understanding legislation, tracking changes, or finding the exact provision that applies to your matter, I can help.

Contact me at kristy@clearlylegal.ca to discuss your file and reduce research time and legal costs.