Bill 25
The Act Respecting the Protection of Personal Information in the Private Sector
Quebec’s Bill 25, formerly known as Bill 64, is a pivotal piece of legislation designed to enhance the protection of personal information in the province. This law, fully effective by September 2024, imposes stringent requirements on organizations handling personal data, aligning with global standards like the GDPR.
Key Provisions of Bill 25
- Enhanced Privacy Rights: Bill 25 grants individuals more control over their personal information, including the right to access, correct, and request the deletion of their data. It also introduces the right to data portability, allowing individuals to transfer their data between organizations.
- Stricter Consent Requirements: Organizations must obtain clear, explicit consent for the collection and use of personal information, particularly when dealing with sensitive data or minors. This consent must be purpose-specific and separate from other agreements.
- Appointment of Privacy Officers: All organizations must designate a Data Protection Officer (DPO) responsible for ensuring compliance with Bill 25. This role can be assigned to a member of top management unless specified otherwise.
- Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs): Before implementing new technologies or processes that could affect privacy, organizations are required to conduct PIAs to evaluate potential risks and establish protective measures.
- Data Breach Notifications: In the event of a data breach that poses a risk of serious harm, organizations must promptly notify the affected individuals and the Commission d’accès à l’information du Québec (CAI).
Why Compliance Matters
For organizations like the Hadley Community, compliance with Bill 25 is not just a legal obligation but a commitment to protecting the privacy and trust of those we support. By adhering to these regulations, we ensure the safety of personal information, build trust with our community, and avoid the significant financial and reputational risks associated with non-compliance.