The online commenting tool was available for a sample of proposed regulations since April 2021.
However, as of Sept. 27, the feature is now available for all proposed regulations published in Part I of the Canada Gazette, Public Services and Procurement Canada announced on Sept. 27.
The government said the new online commenting feature fulfils one of Canada’s obligations under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) on trade.
“The opportunity to provide online comments on proposed regulations is an important step in modernizing the Canada Gazette and embracing how Canadians want to make their voice heard on government decisions,” Helena Jaczek, federal minister of Public Services and Procurement, said in a statement.
“Making these comments publicly available will further increase transparency and accountability, generating a better understanding of regulatory concerns and challenges for Canadians and stakeholders,” the minister said.
The government noted that the comment system meets international and government of Canada accessibility standards “to ensure that all Canadians can participate in the legislative and regulatory process.”
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