Motor Vehicle Act to Be Amended

Those who use the services of a prostitute may soon be walking the streets themselves thanks to legislation that will give municipalities the power to seize the vehicles of johns.

Introduced today by Justice Minister Michael Baker, the amendment will provide municipalities with the opportunity to pass a bylaw allowing for the seizure of vehicles used in the commission of a prostitution-related offence.

The amendment gives municipalities the legal framework to deal with what is a major problem in some areas. A vehicle may be seized by a peace officer if the officer is satisfied the car was used in the course of committing an offence under several sections of the Criminal Code of Canada. The sections include Section 211 (transporting a person to a bawdy house), Section 212 (procuring) or Section 213 (offence in relation to prostitution).

"We are pleased to once again fulfill a commitment made to the people of Nova Scotia," said Mr. Baker. "This amendment gives municipalities the freedom to address the issue of prostitution with a practical and effective legislative tool."

Another amendment to the Motor Vehicle Act brought forward today deals with braking systems on large trucks. The amendment will prohibit the use of engine retarder braking equipment -- commonly known as jake brakes -- in areas with speeds of 50 kilometres an hour or less. Engine retarder brakes are not necessary at low speeds.

"A great deal of concern has been expressed regarding the noise level caused by these systems," said Mr. Baker. "This amendment will not affect the safe operation of these vehicles, but will address a long-standing problem, particularly for residents in the Colchester area who fought to have this amendment brought forward."