Bill C-10 amends the Broadcasting Act to modernize it for the digital age. A key change is the inclusion of online undertakings, like streaming services, as a distinct type of broadcasting undertaking, bringing them under the Act's regulatory scope. The bill updates the broadcasting policy to reflect the needs and interests of all Canadians, including those from diverse backgrounds, and emphasizes opportunities for Indigenous persons and accessible programming for people with disabilities.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is given new powers to regulate and supervise the broadcasting system. This includes the ability to set conditions for broadcasting undertakings through orders, and to require financial contributions to support the Canadian broadcasting system. The CRTC can also now share information with the Minister, the Chief Statistician, and the Commissioner of Competition, while establishing a process to protect confidential information.
The bill clarifies that a broadcasting undertaking, excluding online platforms, needs a license or exemption to operate. It also updates penalties for offenses and introduces administrative monetary penalties for certain violations, including those related to the Accessible Canada Act. Several related and consequential amendments are also made to other acts to align with these changes.
Furthermore, the bill ensures that online undertakings, including social media services, support Canadian content and creators, with considerations for linguistic duality and freedom of expression. It mandates discoverability of Canadian programming and provides a framework for negotiations between online and traditional broadcasting undertakings. There are also provisions related to community media, Indigenous language programming and the accessibility of broadcasting for people with disabilities.
Jobs
This bill promotes the use of Canadian creative and other human resources in the creation, production, and presentation of programming. It encourages foreign online undertakings to support Canadian programming, which could lead to more opportunities for people working in the Canadian broadcasting industry.
Spending
The bill gives the CRTC the power to require that broadcasting undertakings make expenditures to support the Canadian broadcasting system. This includes spending on developing, financing, producing, or promoting Canadian programs.