What it is
Bill C-9, the Combatting Hate Act, changes the Criminal Code in three main ways. It creates standalone hate crime offences, so prosecutors no longer have to rely only on hate as a sentencing factor attached to another crime. It raises maximum penalties for mischief and intimidation aimed at places of worship, schools, and community centres. It also adds new reporting requirements for online platforms when hateful content appears on their services.
Who it affects
The bill applies to every Canadian, but the sharpest impact falls on people charged with hate-motivated offences, who face longer maximum sentences. Religious congregations, cultural groups, and community organizations gain stronger legal protection around their buildings. Online platforms operating in Canada take on new compliance duties. Police, prosecutors, and courts will adjust how they charge and try these cases.
What changes
Hate crime becomes a charge on its own, not just an aggravating factor at sentencing. Maximum penalties go up for mischief and intimidation committed at or near places of worship, schools, and community spaces used by identifiable groups. Online platforms face stronger duties to report hateful content. The exact penalty ceilings and reporting thresholds are set in the bill text and take effect once the law is in force.
Where it stands
The House passed the bill at third reading on March 25, 2026. The Senate Human Rights Committee studied it through the spring, and the Senate passed it at third reading on June 4, 2026. Only Royal Assent remains before it becomes law.
Pros & Concerns
👍 Pros
Supporters say standalone offences make hate crimes easier to charge, track, and prosecute. Stiffer penalties near places of worship respond to a rise in reported attacks on synagogues, mosques, and churches. Platform reporting rules could give police earlier warning of organized threats.
👎 Concerns
Critics warn the new offences could be applied broadly and chill lawful speech, especially around protest and political debate. Defence lawyers question whether tougher maximums actually deter hate. Platforms and free-expression groups say reporting duties may push companies to over-remove content to avoid legal risk.
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official source using HillPulse's editorial AI · last refreshed Fri, 12 Jun 2026 06:18:04 GMT