City of Brampton welcomes new federal legislation on bail reform

​​New Criminal Code amendments introduce tougher bail provisions and stronger sentencing measures to enhance community safety and protect residents

​BRAMPTON, ON (June 22, 2026) - The City of Brampton welcomes the passage of the federal government's Bail and Sentencing Reform Act, 2026 (Bill C-14), a landmark piece of legislation introducing stronger bail provisions for repeat and violent offenders, and tougher sentencing laws for serious crimes, including violent crimes, firearm, terrorism and drug trafficking, intimate partner and national security related offences.

Mayor Patrick Brown and members of Council, alongside dignitaries and law enforcement, celebrate the passage of federal bail reform legislation following years of advocacy. Credit: City of Brampton

The legislation, which received Royal Assent on June 15, 2026, includes more than 80 targeted amendments to the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and the National Defence Act. The changes will make bail more difficult to obtain for repeat and violent offenders, strengthen measures to address organized crime and introduce tougher sentencing provisions for serious offences when the changes come into force on July 15, 2026.

The City of Brampton has been one of Canada's leading voices calling for meaningful bail reform. Mayor Patrick Brown, alongside members of Council, law enforcement leaders, victims' advocates and municipal partners across the country, repeatedly urged the federal government to strengthen Canada's bail system following a series of violent incidents involving repeat offenders who were released back into communities while awaiting trial.

The City's advocacy included the Mayor's testimony before parliamentary committees, participation in national discussions on community safety and ongoing engagement with federal decision-makers to advance reforms that better protect residents, including through the City's "Bail Reform Now" campaign, which called for changes to Canada's bail system to address repeat violent offending and strengthen community safety.

The City of Brampton will continue working with all orders of government, law enforcement partners and community partners to support the implementation of the new measures and advocate for additional actions that strengthen community safety and improve outcomes for victims and communities across Canada.

The passage of Bill C-14 represents an important step forward, and the City of Brampton remains committed to advancing community safety through proactive enforcement, prevention, education and strong partnerships. These efforts contribute to safer neighbourhoods and an improved quality of life for all. Residents can learn more about community safety programs, resources and opportunities to get involved at brampton.ca/communitysafety.

​Quotes

​"For years, Brampton has been leading the call for meaningful bail reform because our residents deserve to feel safe in their communities. We have repeatedly seen violent and repeat offenders released back into our neighbourhoods, only to reoffend and create new victims. The principle is simple: if someone poses a serious risk to community safety, they should be kept behind bars, not released to commit another crime. Today's legislation is an important step toward restoring accountability in Canada's justice system, strengthening community safety and ensuring repeat violent offenders face tougher consequences. This is a significant victory for residents in Brampton and communities across Canada who demanded action and refused to accept the status quo." - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton ​"Peel Regional Police has joined the City of Brampton and policing partners across Canada in advocating for meaningful bail reform that better protects our communities. Across Brampton and Peel Region, our officers have seen firsthand the impact repeat violent offending has on victims, families and neighbourhoods. These legislative changes represent an important step toward strengthening accountability, supporting victims and enhancing public safety. We welcome these reforms and the positive impact they will have on residents throughout our region." - Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Peel Regional Police

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