B.C. looks to ban disruptive protests on school grounds

The B.C. government has introduced legislation that would prevent disruptive behaviour, such as aggressive protests, on school grounds.

The new law would allow police to arrest or issue tickets to anyone found impeding access, disrupting educational activities or attempting to intimidate an individual within 20 metres (66 feet) of school properties.

Premier David Eby said everyone has a right to freedom of expression, but disrupting or scaring kids while they are learning should be illegal.

“During the pandemic, when hospitals and health-care workers became the target of anti-vaccine protests, we took action so doctors and nurses could get to work and patients could access care. As schools increasingly become the target, we’re taking similar action to ensure classrooms are safe for kids,” Eby told a news conference Wednesday.

Attorney General Niki Sharma said protests are an important way for people to express their views and advocate for change, but not at the expense of the safety of our schools.

“This legislation provides an important tool to help safeguard our schools and protect kids from intimidation and harassment so they can feel safe to learn,” Sharma remarked.