Oxford MP’s Jail Not Bail Act to be voted on this week

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

Oxford MP Arpan Khanna’s Jail Not Bail Act will be voted on this week in the House of Commons.

The bill, which is co-sponsored by Brant MP and Shadow Minister for Justice and the Attorney General Larry Brock, aims to put an end to repeat offenders who are released on bail to commit another crime.

A release on the second reading pointed to “failed Liberal criminal justice policies”, growing violent crime, and a “deeply concerning rise” in extortion.

The intent is Bill C-242 “would restore public confidence in the justice system by ensuring that individuals accused of serious, repeat, and violent offences face stricter bail conditions and are not routinely released back into communities to reoffend.”

“Communities across this country are dealing with the real and immediate impacts of catch-and-release justice,” said Khanna. “The Jail Not Bail Act is a common-sense response that prioritizes victims, restores accountability, and ensures that dangerous individuals are kept behind bars.”

The bill had its second reading vote on Wednesday, after press time for the Post.

“I am cautiously optimistic,” Khanna said on Monday of its chances of passing after debate earlier in the day.

Although this is a Private Member’s Bill and should be a free vote, Khanna expects Liberal members to be whipped.

“I understand the Liberal party like to play games with this stuff, especially when their failed policies have caused this problem,” he said.

Khanna has been reaching out to members of all parties with stories of the impacts of the current policies that let previously convicted criminals out on bail. These include the impacts on victims of crime, victims’ families, and police officers.

He noted that crime impacts people non-partisanly, with a bullet not caring about a person’s political leanings. Khanna emphasized there is still a presumption of innocence with his legislation, but this bill will address those who commit crime after crime, even when out on bail.

“This is for those repeat offenders who have chosen a life of crime, and that’s who were targeting with this bill,” he explained.

The Liberals brought forward Bill C-14, which the Conservatives supported, that tinkered with bail, but did not go far enough.

“With extortion and violent crime at alarming rates, Canadians cannot afford further delay,” added Khanna. “This is an opportunity for all parties to come together, put public safety first, and deliver real results for Canadians.”