The Quebec legislature has passed a law that would impose fines of up to $1,500 on people who intimidate or harass politicians.
The Coalition Avenir Quebec government says the law is necessary to curb rising resignations of elected officials, particularly at the municipal level, but critics say it threatens free speech rights.
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The legislation comes shortly after a group representing Quebec municipalities released a survey showing 74 per cent of elected municipal leaders reported experiencing harassment and intimidation, and 741 of 8,000 municipal leaders resigned since the province's 2021 election.
In addition to fines, the law allows elected officials to apply to the High Court for an injunction against citizens who threaten, intimidate or harass them.
Municipal Affairs Minister Andrée Laforest amended the bill in response to criticism, including from media companies, to include language affirming citizens' right to freely participate in public debate.
Laforest also amended the bill to make it clear that prosecutors, not the provincial election agency, will be responsible for prosecuting people who threaten or intimidate politicians.
© 2024 The Canadian Press
