Motor Vehicle Act Amended

The legislation that could put johns on the street was reintroduced today by Justice Minister Michael Baker. The Motor Vehicle Act will be amended to allow municipalities to pass a by- law allowing for the seizure of vehicles used in the commission of a prostitution-related offence.

“This may not be relevant for all municipalities,” said Mr. Baker. “However, the legislative framework will be available to those who are faced with this problem.”

A municipality can enable a peace officer to seize a vehicle 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.

“These amendments are about creating safer communities and safer streets,” said Mr. Baker.