Bailey's Law, aimed at changing how Canada addresses intimate partner violence, headed to Senate
Posted on: Apr 28, 2026 04:05 IST | Posted by: Cbc
The domiciliate of common land has passed a proposed amendment to the malefactor encipher named after a Kelowna adult female who was allegedly killed by her estranged husband in a brutal daylight attack.
Bill C-225, or Bailey's Law, is a Conservative private member's bill named after Bailey McCourt, a 32-year-old mother of two killed in a Kelowna parking lot in July 2025.
McCourt's estranged husband, James Plover, who was convicted of assault and released from court pending sentencing in a separate case just hours before her death, has been charged with first-degree murder.
McCourt's case has become a rallying point for those arguing the criminal justice system needs to better protect victims of domestic violence.
Survivor of deadly Kelowna attack calls for justice reform
The bill was tabled by Frank Caputo, Conservative MP for Kamloops-Thompson-Nicola, and proposes several changes to the code.
Those changes include making the killing of an intimate partner an automatic first-degree murder charge; empowering courts to hold individuals charged with domestic assault for up to seven days for a risk assessment if there are red flags; and changing bail rules for those with a previous domestic violence conviction.
While the bill passed second reading unanimously, third reading was passed "on division," which allows members of Parliament to approve bills without having to register their support or their disapproval.
It essentially means that the parties don't agree on the piece of legislation in question, but don't feel the need to have a head count on who supports it and who doesn't, instead allowing it to move to Senate.
"I can't tell you how profoundly honoured I am to have sponsored this bill," Caputo said in a video update posted to social media announcing the bill had been passed.
He thanked everyone who helped make it a reality, in particular McCourt's family.
The bill will now head to the Senate for debate before it can become a law.
Plover's trial is ongoing with a scheduling appearance set for May 1.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.