Feds announce reforms to bail and legal system

Last Thursday, the federal government announced highly anticipated reforms aimed at keeping repeat offenders away from communities.

The Bail and Sentencing Reform Act focuses on stricter bail laws for violent and repeat offending, as well as organized crime. It also aims to make sentencing laws tougher for serious and violent crimes.

“This is a pillar of what our Chamber and other business organizations have been calling for,” Chamber CEO John Wilson said. “Whether this Bill accomplishes what the government says remains to be seen. We know many businesses have run out of patience with promises so we really want to see effective action at this point.”

BC’s Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Nina Krieger, who is MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake, was optimistic the federal reforms will make a difference.

“Police in our province are too often arresting the same individuals for repeat offences, only to see them quickly return to the streets to reoffend,” Krieger said in a media release. “Bill C-14 directly responds to those concerns. It strengthens bail provisions, provides clearer direction on when detention should be sought and enhances sentencing options for serious crimes. In short, these reforms will help keep repeat criminals off our streets.”