· Bill / Restriction on complaints · tabled
Bill 22 — Restriction on Frivolous or Vexatious Animal Protection Complaints
This bill introduces a new prohibition against making frivolous or vexatious complaints to peace officers regarding alleged contraventions of the Animal Protection Act.
What changed
- Adds Section 11.1, stating 'No person shall make a frivolous or vexatious complaint to a peace officer respecting an alleged contravention of this Act, the regulations or the conditions of an order issued under this Act.'
- Amends Section 15 to include 'knowingly making a false or misleading statement or producing false information' as an offence.
Why it matters
- Establishes a legal basis to penalize individuals for complaints deemed 'frivolous or vexatious', which may deter legitimate reporting of animal distress.
- The broad definition of 'frivolous or vexatious' complaints could reduce public engagement in reporting potential animal protection violations.
- May impact the willingness of citizens to report perceived animal welfare issues due to potential penalties for complaints deemed frivolous or vexatious.
Rights affected
- Freedom of expression — The freedom to speak, publish, and access ideas.
Other governance concerns
- Potential chilling effect on reporting
- Restriction on freedom of expression
Primary sources (1)
- Primary sourceGovernment documentBill 22 – Animal Protection Amendment Act, 2026 (Alberta Legislative Assembly)