Those of you reading who were assigned the book “1984” by author George Orwell in grade school will find this story dangerously similar to the novel’s plot. Canada’s ‘Online Streaming Act,’ also known as Bill C-11 passed the Senate and became law as of Thursday.
The Senate voted 52-16 on a motion informing the House of Commons that the Senate agreed with the version passed by most MPs, making the bill possible.
This is a bill focusing on reforming the Broadcasting Act – the latest reform since 1991 – which will take into consideration all online content from citizens. Its aim is to regulate how streaming platforms MUST treat all the audio-visual content posted online.
According to TechRadar Pro, “It defines as a new category of the broadcaster, called “online undertaking,” any platform airing programs on the internet in Canada. From streaming services like Netflix and Spotify to podcast clients and social media of the likes of YouTube and TikTok.”
Bill C-11 has faced heavy criticism over the years for its lack of transparency and broad definition of what content should be overseen. Canadian YouTubers have been particularly vocal against the legislations claiming that in controlling user-generated content, it will negatively impact their freedom of expression. If the bill is enforced, some YouTubers are even suggesting that the Canada VPN will spoof their locations.
Some tech companies lobbying against the bill have taken to their platforms, warning Canadians earning money from making videos can be heavily impacted with this bill passing.
It remains to be seen what the timeline will be for Bill C-11’s policy changes to come into effect.
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