To ensure a safe and respectful environment for municipal elected officials, the Government of Québec recently adopted the Act to enact the Act to protect elected municipal officers and to facilitate the unhindered exercise of their functions and to amend various legislative provisions concerning municipal affairs (Bill 57). This legislation introduces several important measures to combat harassment, intimidation, and disruptive behaviour.
Key highlights of the law include:
- New injunction power: An elected official may request a court order to prevent a person from attending council meetings or making contact if their actions hinder the official’s duties or violate their privacy.
- New offences: Disrupting a meeting or intimidating an elected official is now subject to fines.
- Protection of personal information: A candidate’s or elected official’s address will no longer be publicly disclosed in electoral documents.
- Reinforced legal support: Municipalities are now required to provide reasonable legal assistance to elected officials involved in proceedings related to their role.
- Respect for democratic values: Citizens may express their opinions, but must do so respectfully.
These measures are designed to support a constructive and democratic dialogue between elected officials and the public.