This update is part of a continuing series. We are providing
a brief overview of the current state of federal and provincial
emergency legislation, how our governments are using (and could
eventually use) their statutory powers to confront COVID-19. We are
also canvassing some of the constitutional constraints on
government action and police's limits on carrying out
enforcement actions.
Violations of orders issued under provincial public health
or emergency legislation can entail significant penalties,
including substantial fines for individuals and corporations and
incarceration for individuals. However, police may not interfere
with individual liberties more than what is reasonably required to
fulfill their duties.
