Bill S-208
2nd reading · Senate
An Act to amend the Criminal Code (independence of the judiciary)
This bill would change the Criminal Code to give judges more flexibility when sentencing, reducing the impact of mandatory minimum penalties so judges can consider the full circumstances of each case.
Sponsor · Kim Pate
What it means for you
Judges would have more power to decide fair sentences based on individual situations, rather than being locked into automatic minimum punishments set by law.
The debate · 2 points
Supporters say
- The bill does not impose mandatory minimum sentences, so judges keep full discretion to set a sentence that fits each case.
Critics say
- Mandatory minimum sentences are said to keep offenders in prison longer and to send society a clear message that certain crimes are serious.
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