Under The Emergency Planning Amendment Act, fines for non-compliance with emergency orders will rise to $7,500 for individuals and $100,000 for corporations, up from $2,000 and $10,000 respectively.
The more significant fines will act as a deterrent and penalty for those who carry out more serious offences, the government said in a press release.
“The people of Saskatchewan continue to show their strength during these difficult times, and the government is committed to putting the necessary measures in place to ensure the health, safety and economic well-being of our province,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Gordon Wyant said.
In addition, the new legislation will confirm and clarify protections for individuals and organizations from litigation based on COVID-19 transmission, if there has been good-faith compliance with emergency orders and other applicable laws. Where there is gross negligence, liability protection will not apply. Similar laws were recently passed in Ontario and British Columbia.
“This Act will honour the tremendous efforts of individuals, organizations and businesses that are working on the frontline, while complying with public health rules and requirements,” Wyant said.
The original Act was not designed to address an ongoing pandemic like COVID-19, highlighting the need for updated legislation. The changes will clarify the ability to enforce emergency orders and ensure the province can meet the challenges in the future.
