SoVote

Decentralized Democracy

Senate Bill

Bill S-238

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
November 03, 2022
Véronique Barbe Act
  • Bill S-238, also known as the Véronique Barbe Act, seeks to amend the Criminal Code and the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights. The bill aims to provide measures to prevent offenders from publishing, distributing, transmitting, or making available on the internet any information concerning victims of offenses. It would also introduce a right for victims to have reasonable measures taken to prohibit offenders from sharing information about them on the internet. The bill includes amendments to several sections of the Criminal Code and the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights.
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  • S1
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  • RA
  • Yea
  • Nay
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • One steelman argument in favor of Bill S-238 is that it prioritizes the protection and privacy of victims in the criminal justice system. By prohibiting the publication, distribution, transmission, or availability of any information concerning victims, this bill aims to prevent further harm or trauma to victims. It recognizes the potential negative impact that publicizing victim information can have on their emotional well-being and personal safety. Additionally, by amending the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights to include the right to have reasonable measures taken to prevent the publication of victim information, the bill ensures that victims' rights are prioritized and protected within the criminal justice system. This can help build trust and confidence in the system for victims, as they will feel more secure knowing that their personal information and trauma will not be widely accessible.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • One possible steelman argument opposing this bill is that it potentially infringes on freedom of speech and limits the ability of individuals to share information on the internet. While protecting the privacy and safety of victims is undoubtedly important, implementing restrictions on publishing, distributing, transmitting, or making accessible any information about victims could have unintended consequences. Firstly, it could limit the ability of journalists and media outlets to report on criminal cases and the experiences of victims, potentially hindering the public's understanding of crime and the criminal justice system. By preventing the dissemination of information about victims, it may be more difficult for the public to assess the impact of crimes on individuals and society as a whole. Secondly, it could impede the ability of individuals to share their own personal experiences and seek support from others online. Victims of cr
Senate Second Reading
  • Nov. 3, 2022, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read
Senate First Reading
  • Feb. 24, 2022, midnight
  • Passed