SoVote

Decentralized Democracy

Senate Bill

Bill S-279

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
February 08, 2024
Registered Charity Board Diversity Data Collection Act
  • This bill, called the Registered Charity Board Diversity Data Collection Act, aims to amend the Income Tax Act in Canada. It requires registered charities to provide certain demographic data about their officers to the Minister of National Revenue. This information will be compiled for reporting purposes. The bill also specifies that the Minister can only use this information for preparing reports or procedures related to deregistration of a charity. The Minister is required to prepare and complete a report providing data on directors, trustees, officers, or like officials of registered charities and whether they are members of designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act. The report must be tabled in Parliament and published online. The provisions of this bill apply to taxation years that begin on or after the first March 31 after the bill receives royal assent. The bill will come into force on the second March 31 after it receives royal assent.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman Argument in Favor of Bill S-279: One possible steelman argument in favor of Bill S-279 is that it promotes transparency and accountability within registered charities. By requiring registered charities to provide demographic data on their officers, the government can compile this information for reporting purposes. This data can help identify any potential disparities or underrepresentation of certain groups within the leadership of registered charities. Collecting data on the diversity of directors, trustees, officers, or like officials of registered charities can provide valuable insights into the composition of these organizations. It can help identify any barriers or biases that may exist in the selection and appointment processes for leadership positions. This information can then be used to inform policies and initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion within the charitable sector. Furthermore, by making this data publicly available, the government can foster greater accountability and encourage registered charities to prioritize diversity and inclusion in their leadership. It can also serve as a benchmark for progress and allow for comparisons between different organizations and sectors. Overall, the collection and dissemination of demographic data on registered charities' officers can contribute to a more equitable and inclusive charitable sector. It can help address any systemic barriers that may exist and promote greater representation of diverse voices and perspectives in decision-making processes.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument Opposing Bill S-279: While the intention behind Bill S-279 may seem noble, it is important to consider the potential negative consequences and infringements on individual liberties that this legislation may bring. Here are some right-wing anti-government talking points to consider: 1. Limited Government Intervention: Right-wing ideology emphasizes limited government intervention in the economy and society. This bill represents an unnecessary expansion of government power by requiring registered charities to provide demographic data on their officers. It is not the government's role to collect and compile this information. 2. Privacy Concerns: Requiring registered charities to disclose demographic data on their officers raises significant privacy concerns. Individuals have a right to privacy, and this legislation could potentially infringe upon that right by collecting and disseminating personal information without their consent. 3. Potential for Discrimination: While the stated purpose of this bill is to promote diversity, there is a risk that the collection and dissemination of demographic data could lead to unintended consequences. It may create a system where individuals are judged or treated differently based on their demographic characteristics, rather than their qualifications or abilities. 4. Administrative Burden: This legislation imposes an additional administrative burden on registered charities, diverting their resources and attention away from their core missions. Compliance with the data collection requirements may require significant time and financial resources, which could be better utilized for charitable activities. 5. Unintended Consequences: The government's attempt to promote diversity through data collection may have unintended consequences. It may discourage individuals from participating in charitable organizations or discourage charitable donations if they perceive that their personal information will be collected and potentially used against them. In conclusion, while the goal of promoting diversity within registered charities is commendable, it is important to consider the potential negative consequences and infringements on individual liberties that this legislation may bring. A more effective approach would be to encourage voluntary diversity initiatives within the charitable sector, rather than imposing government-mandated data collection requirements.
Senate Second Reading
  • Oct. 4, 2023, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read
Senate First Reading
  • Oct. 4, 2023, 2 p.m.
  • Passed