Bill C-27, which would establish the new Consumer Privacy Protection Act (CPPA) and Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA), was raised for second reading in the House of Commons on Friday. “It’s a call to action for [MPs] to realize that our privacy laws are 20 years old,” Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne told reporters. (The Logic)

Talking point: Industry groups and privacy experts have agreed that Canada needs to replace its dotcom bust-era rules. But some stakeholders aren’t convinced by Champagne’s bill, which was introduced in July and revised the Liberal government’s earlier attempt that failed to pass. AIDA has proved a particular flashpoint, with lawyers and digital-rights advocates expressing concern that it was proposed without specific consultations; leaves too much to unwritten regulations; and doesn’t account for some key ways in which automated systems can cause harm. “I appreciate the comments of everyone, but we consulted widely,” Champagne said, when asked about those criticisms. AI systems may already be affecting consumers in areas like insurance coverage and loan eligibility, he noted. “Making sure that we have responsible use of AI is the right thing to do, full stop, and I won’t be deterred from that.”