As the House of Commons of Canada returns to session, Helix is taking a look at the significance and progression of the child and youth-centered Bill S-212 and Bill C-34.

Bill S-212: The National Strategy for Children and Youth Act

• Update: Bill S-212 has moved to its 2nd reading at the House of Commons!
• What is Bill S-212?
  • The bill mandates a structured and extensive federal strategy that upholds the rights and well-being of young Canadians. Requiring consultation with youth, Indigenous governing bodies and stakeholders, the bill focuses on addressing systemic gaps, eliminating child poverty, complying with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and jurisdictional coordination. Learn more about Bill S-212 here.

Bill C-34: An Act to enact the Digital Safety Act & the Digital Safety Commission of Canada Act

• Update: Bill C-34 has also moved to its 2nd reading at the House of Commons!
• Formerly known as: The Safe Social Media Act
• What is Bill C-34?
  • The bill focuses on protecting children under 16 from the dangers of social media and AI chatbots. This would regulate online platforms, and require the removal of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and non-consensual sensitive images within 24 hours. The bill also mandates safety-by-design features and restricts account creation for youth under 16. Learn more about Bill C-34 here.
• The Helix Foundation has previously discussed this bill in our blog.

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