With a snap federal election possible at any time, it’s important for businesses and organizations to understand the third-party election rules set-out in the Canada Elections Act. These rules will be of particular interest to businesses and organizations that engage members of the public, via social media or conventional advertising, on politically charged issues.
The third-party rules, which were broadened in 2018, regulate “election advertising”, “election surveys” and “partisan activities”. These terms are all defined broadly. Sometimes day-to-day activities, such as posting on social media, can become regulated.
Businesses and organizations that plan to engage in regulated activities (or that want to avoid engaging in regulated activities) should develop and implement a compliance plan.
The Canada Elections Act does not provide businesses and organizations with a “grace period”. In the case of a snap election, the regulated period begins once an election is called. Given that a snap election cannot be predicted with certainty, businesses and organizations should prepare in advance.
Fasken is a leader in legal advice and representation on election law compliance and other aspects of political law. This exclusive presentation, delivered by leading legal experts, will provide an in-depth focus on legal and reputational risks. It will help you ensure your business or organization is compliance focused.
Topics to be Covered
- What exactly is a snap election? How could it be triggered?
- Why is it important I develop a compliance plan before an election is called?
- What is meant by “partisan activities”, “election surveys” and “election advertising”?
- How can I ensure social media posts do not inadvertently become regulated?
- What do I do if I purchased issue-based advertising before an election is called—and it is scheduled to be transmitted after an election is called?
- What am I required to do if my business or organization engages in regulated activities? What are the rules related to registering and reporting?
- What are the legal and reputational risks associated with non-compliance?
Agenda
1:00 PM to 2:30 PM EST: Presentation
2:30 PM EST to 3:00 PM EST: Questions & Answers
