News release

Proposed Changes to Motor Vehicle Act Mean More Fairness, Transparency

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

The province is introducing amendments to sections of the Motor Vehicle Act that will make the process for licence suspensions and appeals fairer and more transparent for all Nova Scotians.

"These changes will make the process more predictable and objective and will provide individuals with access to an independent appeal," said John MacDonell, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "We want to maintain safe roads for all Nova Scotians and provide tools for the registrar to deal with incompetent or unfit drivers in a reasonable manner."

The proposed amendments to the act will allow the registrar to suspend a driver if they fail an examination required by the act, or if a medical examination indicates that the person is not able to safely operate a motor vehicle. Also, certain decisions of the registrar may be appealed to a new Motor Vehicle Appeal Board whose members will be appointed by the minister.

The authority of the registrar varies from province to province. The proposed amendments are similar to those of New Brunswick and Quebec.

"These amendments respond to concerns expressed in a recently released report from my office," said Dwight Bishop, provincial Ombudsman. "From a fairness standpoint, I am pleased that the parameters of the suspension and appeal processes have been clarified."