Screening regime for sexual history evidence can apply in human trafficking, ‘sexual services’ cases: SCC
Supreme Court of Canada Justice Mary Moreau ruled for the court that ‘a case-by-case’ — rather than a ‘categorical’ — approach should be used to determine whether the Criminal Code (since amended) s. 276 regime for pre-screening of sexual history evidence applies in sexual services and human trafficking prosecutions.
Friday, October 16, 2026 @ 6:25 PM
For the first time, the Supreme Court of Canada has explained when and how the Criminal Code’s s. 276 rules limiting the admissibility and use of evidence of complainants’ sexual history apply in prosecutions for non-enumerated sexual exploitation crimes, such as human trafficking and selling “sexual services.” ... [read more]
Federal UNDRIP Act does not automatically expand consultation duties: Federal Court of Appeal
Monday, October 19, 2026 @ 4:20 PM
The Federal Court of Appeal has ruled that the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA) does not automatically impose additional Indigenous consultation and consent requirements on project approvals, overturning a ruling requiring further consultation over a proposed nuclear waste facility. ... [read more]
Ontario targets illegal cannabis sales with new AGCO powers
Monday, October 19, 2026 @ 2:55 PM
The Government of Ontario is planning on introducing changes to “strengthen enforcement against illegal cannabis sales” to protect consumers, while also “promoting a fair and competitive marketplace for the approximately 1,800 authorized cannabis retailers operating across the province.” ... [read more]
Ottawa adds Express Entry points for high-wage occupations, drops LMIA requirements
Friday, October 16, 2026 @ 4:55 PM
The federal government has announced changes to the Express Entry system to prioritize candidates for permanent residence with eligible Canadian work experience or a qualifying job offer in a high-wage occupation. ... [read more]
Manitoba introduces legislation on hydro rates, WCB financial reporting
Friday, October 16, 2026 @ 1:40 PM
On Oct. 15, the Manitoba government introduced the Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act (BITSA 2), which has measures to help keep Manitoba Hydro rates affordable and improve accountability and transparency in the province’s financial reporting. ... [read more]