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S-3At second reading in the House of Commons

Law to Update How We Measure Stuff Like Weight and Electricity

Updating Measurement Laws

Introduced Mar 12, 2026
Summary

This proposed law aims to update how things are measured in Canada. It would change the rules for devices like scales in stores and gas pumps. It also covers electricity and gas meters. The goal is to make sure these devices are accurate. This change affects businesses that use measuring devices. It also affects everyday people who buy things measured by these devices. For example, when you buy gas or groceries, you rely on accurate measurements. The proposed law would give more power to government inspectors. They could enter businesses to check devices and order changes to fix problems. The proposed law also lets the government charge fees for these checks. This matters because accurate measurements are important for fair trade. If a gas pump or scale is wrong, people could be cheated. This proposed law aims to protect consumers and make sure businesses are following the rules. It also gives the government more tools to enforce these rules.

Where This Lands on Key Issues

Where this proposed law falls on the policy spectrums that Canadians care about

Business & Worker RulesStrengthen worker protections

By ensuring accurate measurements in commercial transactions, the bill indirectly protects consumers and workers from potential exploitation or unfair practices, leaning slightly towards worker/consumer protection.

This bill
Bill Quality
Solid

This proposed law updates the rules for how things are measured and inspected in Canada. It gives more power to the government to check devices and solve disputes, but it also creates some uncertainty because many details are left to the Minister to decide later.

Things to Watch For

  • The rules for temporary permission to use devices are not clearly defined.
  • The process for appealing a suspension or revocation of permission is not detailed.
  • The types of fees and charges that can be applied are not specified.
  • The directions for examining devices by sampling may not be consistent.
  • The public may not have input on the directions issued by the Minister.
  • The criteria for exempting local standards are not defined.
  • The definition of "vehicle" is broad and could include unexpected things.
  • The extent of the inspector's powers to access data remotely is not limited.
Progress

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