Bill No. 7 was tabled in the Legislative Assembly today. The Bill includes amendments to three different pieces of legislation: the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act; the Jury Act; and the Crime Prevention and Victim Services Trust Act.
Changes to the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act would provide the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Unit with the authority to investigate illegal, property-based activity that relates to contraventions of the federal Cannabis Act and the territorial Cannabis Control and Regulation Act.
Changes to Yukon’s Jury Act would allow individuals who have been sentenced to a term of imprisonment of less than two years, to serve on a jury.
Changes to the Crime Prevention and Victim Services Trust Act would allow the application of fine surcharges under the Act to be discretionary.
The proposed legislation is designed to update legislation to align with court decisions and with recent federal legislative changes.
This Bill addresses a number of outstanding issues in current legislation that would ensure our laws remain clear, consistent and effective.
Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee
Yukon’s Jury Act states who is qualified for jury service in the territory, who is disqualified and who may be excused.
Since 1998, the Crime Prevention and Victim Services Trust has provided support to Yukon community groups for a wide range of grassroots projects aimed at preventing crime and supporting victims. Changes would allow the application of a victim fine surcharge to be discretionary.
Matthew Cameron
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7136
matthew.cameron@gov.yk.ca
Fiona Azizaj
Communications, Justice
867-667-8148
fiona.azizaj@gov.yk.ca