The Government of Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing public safety by introducing new measures aimed at reducing gun violence and keeping communities secure. This latest initiative strengthens gun control efforts, emphasizing responsibility and safety in firearm use across the nation
Canada Expands Ban on Assault-Style Firearms and Introduces Robust Gun Control Regulations
The Government of Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing public safety by introducing new measures aimed at reducing gun violence and keeping communities secure. This latest initiative strengthens gun control efforts, emphasizing responsibility and safety in firearm use across the nation.
Expanded Prohibition of Assault-Style Firearms
On December 5, 2024, the Government unveiled an extended ban on military-style assault firearms. This prohibition is accompanied by an amnesty order effective until October 30, 2025. The amnesty provides a transition period for firearm owners and businesses to comply with the new regulations while maintaining certain rights.
Specifically, the amnesty safeguards:
- Indigenous Peoples: Those exercising rights under Section 35 of the Constitution Act can continue using newly prohibited firearms for sustenance hunting, provided the firearms were previously classified as non-restricted.
- Hunters: Individuals relying on these firearms for sustenance hunting will be permitted temporary use until suitable alternatives are available.
The amendments to firearm classification regulations now prohibit 104 families of firearms, encompassing 324 specific makes and models. Despite these changes, over 127,000 firearm variations remain accessible for lawful hunting and sport shooting purposes in Canada.
Strengthened Regulations to Prevent Gun Violence
The Government plans to introduce additional regulatory amendments on December 13, 2024, to ensure all firearms entering the Canadian market are accounted for under these updated laws.
These changes align with the comprehensive provisions of former Bill C-21, which is set for full implementation by early 2025. Key initiatives include:
- Addressing Gender-Based and Intimate Partner Violence: New measures will be tabled in Parliament by January 2025 to combat gun violence in these high-risk situations.
- Yellow Flag Laws: Regulations allowing authorities to suspend firearm licenses for individuals deemed a threat will roll out in Spring 2025.
- Large-Capacity Magazine Restrictions: Specific regulations targeting these magazines will be introduced in March 2025.
- Red Flag Laws: Already active, these laws empower individuals to seek court orders for the temporary removal of firearms from those who pose a risk to themselves or others. An awareness campaign about these laws will launch in Spring 2025.
Support Through the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program
To ensure fairness for affected firearm owners and businesses, the Government will provide compensation under the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program (ASFCP). This program, which includes firearms banned in May 2020, is already in its initial phase. Testing is underway with select businesses, and participation will soon expand to all firearms-related enterprises across Canada.
A Balanced Approach to Public Safety
While strengthening gun control laws, the Government remains committed to supporting lawful firearm users. By balancing stringent restrictions with amnesty provisions and compensation, these measures aim to reduce gun violence while respecting the needs of Indigenous communities, hunters, and sport shooters.
This multifaceted strategy underscores Canada’s dedication to fostering safer communities while upholding a responsible approach to firearm use.
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