On 1 January 2023, seven months had elapsed since Quebec’s Bill 96 was given royal assent. And it became a low on 1 June 2022.
In May 2022, Simon Jolin-Barette, a former minister of Quebec’s language, stated that the statute was intended “to promote and defend French.”
To access government services, newcomers will have to acquire French within six months under this law. This is one of the most significant ways that this law changed and will continue to change Quebecers’ lives.
A complete list of how Bill 96 will affect Quebec’s language services can be found here. In November, Quebec’s newest language minister, Jean-Francois Roberge, expressed support for Jolin-view Barrette’s view.
Bill 96 must be implemented as soon as possible, and I have no intention of delaying anything. Even if Quebec’s government officials have a positive attitude regarding Bill 96. The country’s reaction to this law has been far more fragmented since months before it received formal assent.
Bill 96 is supported by some Quebec residents
After Bill 96 was officially enacted in Quebec, a number of civil rights groups demonstrated their support. According to the Montreal Gazette in July, Angus Reid Institute’s late June 2022 survey found that 62% of those who endorsed Québec solidaire also supported Bill 96.
A second online source dissects the same ARI study in greater detail. It indicates that “Bill 96 is supported by 65% of Quebecers who have completed a high school education. As well as 54% by Quebecers who have completed a CEGEP or trade school.” University-educated Quebecers (45%) are in favor of Bill 96. Among Quebecers 18 to 34, Bill 96 has 43% support, 52% among those 35 to 54, and 63% among those over 55.
The majority of members belonging to an organization whose members are French instructors in elementary and high schools in Quebec have reportedly expressed their desire for the regulations of Bill 96 to be extended to French CEGEPs, according to The Montreal Gazette.
This restriction on the right to attend an English-language public school in Quebec is controversial. Proponents of the law argue that it is necessary to protect and promote the French language and culture. While opponents argue that it is unfair to immigrants and others who do not have any connection to the English language or culture. The Supreme Court of Canada has upheld the law. And ruling that it is a reasonable limitation on the right to attend an English-language public school.
Jean-Francois Vallée, president of the “Regroupement pour le cégep français” in November 2022, expressed approval for Bill 96’s extension to all CEGEPs in Quebec. Also noting that 43 out of 44 CEGEPs who spoke in favor had supported the bill.
People outside of Quebec and some in the province are concerned about the potential long-term effects of Bill 96
This law has been criticized by many groups, including American news outlets such as the Washington Post and recent Quebec immigrants, as having long-term adverse effects on the public.
In May 2020, J.J. McCullough, who is based in British Columbia and contributes to the Washington Post, wrote about Bill 96. It will deny immigrants access to English education and eliminate their ability to communicate in English.
The majority of members of an organization consisting of French instructors in elementary and high schools in Quebec have requested for Bill 96’s regulations to be extended to French CEGEPs, according to The Montreal Gazette.
Impact of Bill 96 on the future
Bill 96 has evoked conflicting responses from Quebec, as was to be expected. There will also be further responses to this Bill. As Quebec continues to implement Bill 96 gradually over the next few years.
As Bill 96’s many provisions are gradually implemented until June 2025. One source states that its new effects will affect enterprises all over Quebec.
Bill 96 will have a tremendous impact on everyone living in Quebec, consumers, and businesses. And immigrants alike must closely monitor the impact this law continues to have on their daily lives.
