Meanwhile, provincial representatives, particularly Quebec and British Columbia, emphasized that federal legislation should not conflict with regional regulations, such as Quebec’s Bill 25 on the protection of personal information. This raises questions about the balance between national coherence and provincial autonomy.
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Experts from the University of Toronto and the Institute for Advanced Study note that Canada is seeking to strike a middle ground between the strict EU regulations (GDPR) and the more liberal US approach. The goal is to protect citizens’ rights without stifling innovation.
Public consultations conducted in 2024 showed that 72% of Canadians support stricter controls over the use of their data. However, 58% believe that companies should be required to explain decisions made using AI.
If the bill passes its second reading, it is scheduled for consideration in the Senate in the fall of 2025. Full implementation of the new regulations could take up to two years, including a transition period for businesses.
The initiative reflects a broader trend: Canada seeks to strengthen digital sovereignty by balancing individual rights, economic interests, and technological progress.