Bill Detail
An Act respecting the Spectrum Policy Framework for Canada
This enactment requires the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission to establish a process for ensuring the accuracy of the mobile network coverage data provided by Canadian carriers. It also requires the Minister of Industry to maintain and update the Spectrum Policy Framework for Canada. Lastly, the enactment sets out review and reporting requirements respecting the Framework.
Bill C-268 aims to improve mobile network coverage across Canada, especially in rural and remote areas. It requires the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to create a system for checking the accuracy of coverage data provided by phone companies. This addresses concerns that current data might not reflect actual service availability.
The bill also mandates the Minister of Industry to review and update the Spectrum Policy Framework for Canada, which guides how radio waves are managed. This review must include consultations with various groups, like rural communities, Indigenous groups, and public safety agencies. The updated framework will prioritize improving connectivity for all Canadians, acknowledging that market forces alone haven't solved the problem.