Wild Rose MP Blake Richards’ private members bill passed third reading May 23 in the Senate.
Bill C-309 – the Concealment of Identity Act – was not supposed to come to a vote until sometime this fall, but was advanced by an agreement between Conservative and Liberal members of the Senate.
The final step for the bill becoming law is for it to receive Royal Assent, which could happen this summer.
“It’s a rare achievement to see private members’ legislation become law,” Richards said outside the Senate, “especially for it to amend the Criminal Code.”
The bill amends the Criminal Code to make concealing one’s identity during a riot or illegal gathering unlawful. People would still be permitted to adorn masks and hoods in public if not present at a riot or illegal gathering.
“I’m incredibly grateful for all the support my bill has received,” said Richards. “I’m very proud to have had this opportunity to give police more of the tools they need to protect public safety.”
