Alberta Record

· Bill / Electronic monitoring framework · enacted

Bill 11 (31-1) — electronic monitoring framework 2024

Amends the Corrections Act to establish a framework for electronic monitoring programs, defining electronic monitoring and assigning administration and oversight to the Minister.

Moderate impactCentralization of powerPrivacy & surveillanceCivil libertiesThe public, directlyLegislature

What changed

  • Introduces a definition for 'electronic monitoring' in the Corrections Act, encompassing the use of electronic technology to supervise and monitor individuals with court-imposed conditions. (Section 1(2))
  • Assigns the administration and oversight of electronic monitoring programs, including the establishment of protocols and procedures, to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services. (Section 1(3))
  • Grants the Lieutenant Governor in Council regulation-making authority for electronic monitoring programs. (Section 1(4))

Why it matters

  • Establishes a new legal basis for the provincial government to implement and manage electronic surveillance programs for individuals under court-imposed conditions.
  • Centralizes control over electronic monitoring programs under the Minister, potentially increasing executive authority in this area.
  • Expands the state's capacity for surveillance and supervision of individuals, with implications for privacy and civil liberties.

Rights affected

  • Privacy — Control over personal information held by governments and institutions.

Other governance concerns

  • Expansion of state surveillance capabilities
  • Ministerial control over program administration and oversight
  • Potential impact on privacy and civil liberties of monitored individuals

Primary sources (1)