Two key government bills, C-4 and C-12, face delays in becoming law until February despite an agreement to fast-track their final stages before the House of Commons adjourned last week. The Senate’s schedule did not allow for late legislation to pass through and receive royal assent until Parliament reconvenes after its two-month break.
Chloé Fedio, representing Pierre Moreau in the Senate, mentioned that the upper chamber opted not to rush the complex bills and plans to thoroughly study them in the new year. The Senate leadership aims to ensure an efficient review process when they reconvene on Feb. 3.
Fedio highlighted that the Senate had already committed to examining the fall budget implementation bill, C-15, across 11 committees, limiting the time available to pre-study bills like C-4 and C-12 before the winter recess.
The Government House leader, Steven MacKinnon, respects the Senate’s decision and remains pleased that both bills have progressed through the House.
Progress in the House
In response to previous delays in legislative processes, senators expressed concerns last June when the government urged acceleration of the new agenda. Alberta Sen. Scott Tannas emphasized the importance of upholding the legislative process, particularly regarding large omnibus bills that pose challenges for thorough review.
Tannas stressed the need to preserve the two-chamber system’s purpose of incorporating regional representation and minority interests in lawmaking decisions.
While the Senate’s final sitting day for 2025 was listed as Dec. 11, the House of Commons was scheduled to rise on Dec. 12. Sometimes, the Senate sits beyond the Commons to facilitate the passage of priority bills, especially when time-sensitive measures are involved.
Last-minute Progress in Commons
Last Thursday, after the final question period in 2025, MacKinnon successfully obtained unanimous support to advance Bills C-4 and C-12 to the Senate without a standing vote. Bill C-4 includes provisions such as personal income tax cuts and changes to the Canada Elections Act, while C-12 focuses on border security measures.
C-12, introduced as part of the omnibus border security legislation, underwent amendments and swift clearance in the Commons, following an all-party agreement orchestrated by MacKinnon.
Both Houses adjourned for a two-month holiday recess, with the House set to reconvene on Jan. 26 and the Senate on Feb. 3.
