Conservative MPs are renewing calls for stricter bail laws as Bill C-242, known as the Jail Not Bail Act, returns to the House of Commons for second reading.
Oxford MP Arpan Khanna, the bill’s sponsor, and Larry Brock say the proposed legislation would impose tougher bail conditions on individuals accused of serious and repeat violent offences.
Khanna said communities across Canada are feeling the impact of what he described as a “catch-and-release” justice system. “Communities across this country are dealing with the real and immediate impacts of catch-and-release justice,” he said. “The Jail Not Bail Act is a common-sense response that prioritizes victims, restores accountability, and ensures that dangerous individuals are kept behind bars.”
The Conservatives point to a reported 330 per cent increase in extortion cases nationwide since 2015, with organized crime increasingly targeting businesses and families.
Khanna said the situation requires urgent action from all parties. “With extortion and violent crime at alarming rates, Canadians cannot afford further delay,” he said. “This is an opportunity for all parties to come together, put public safety first, and deliver real results for Canadians.”
The party is also calling on the government to revisit previous legislation, including Bill C-5 and Bill C-75, which they argue weakened sentencing laws.
Bill C-242 is now back before Parliament for debate, where its passage will depend on support from other parties.
