Federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre says their party will introduce the Jail Not Bail Act this fall, proposing legislation aimed at tightening bail rules for violent and repeat offenders.
The bill would create a “Major Offences” category that includes crimes such as firearms offences, sexual assault, kidnapping, human trafficking, home invasion, robbery, extortion, arson, and assault.
Under the bill, judges would be required to prioritize public safety and consider an accused’s full criminal history when deciding bail. Anyone convicted of a major offence in the last ten years who is charged again could be denied bail. The legislation would also prevent individuals with prior indictable convictions from acting as guarantors, allow courts to enforce bail conditions on guarantors, and require non-residents to surrender their passports.
Supporters say the bill aims to close gaps in the current bail system and provide judges with stronger tools to manage risk. By focusing on repeat and violent offenders, the legislation seeks to balance public safety with accountability in the justice system.
The proposed changes would also adjust the risk assessment threshold from “substantial likelihood” to “reasonably foreseeable,” strengthening how judges evaluate the potential threat posed by an accused.
The Jail Not Bail Act comes amid national conversations about bail rules, public safety, and the management of repeat offenders. Proponents say the legislation is intended to provide greater confidence in the justice system while ensuring communities are protected from those charged with serious crimes.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
