Bill Detail

Bill C-244, also known as the Clean Coasts Act, aims to better protect Canada's marine environments. It strengthens the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 and the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act by increasing liability for damage to marine areas. The bill clarifies that causing pollution, even accidentally, can lead to penalties.

Furthermore, it introduces new rules for the transfer of vessel ownership. Owners must ensure that buyers have the financial means and intention to properly maintain, operate, and dispose of the vessel, preventing it from becoming a wreck or hazard. This applies to all vessels except pleasure craft under 24 meters in length. The goal is to ensure responsible vessel ownership and reduce marine pollution.