Liberals propose amendments to Radiocommunication Act in effort to reduce red tape

Ottawa has introduced changes to legislation regulating radio licencing and equipment across Canada, as part of a government-wide effort to limit bureaucratic red tape. On Wednesday, the Liberals introduced Bill S-7, which offers amendments to 31 different laws, including the Radiocommunication Act, administered by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). In particular, S-7, tabled by Sen. Pierre Moreau, the government’s representative in the Red Chamber, would eliminate certification requirements for “low-risk devices” with a streamlined registration process and enable the industry minister to issue authorizations for any radio devices set to be installed on foreign-owned spacecrafts. “This would strengthen competition by facilitating access to space by smaller companies, while maintaining the Minister’s authority and oversight on the use of spectrum licensed to Canadians,” read a government document outlining the changes. The changes would also facilitate updated spectrum management systems, and allow for “digital tools and automated processes to improve regulatory efficiency and service delivery.” ISED did not immediately respond to questions from The Wire Report asking about the projected impact of the proposed changes. The federal government has promised to introduce similar legislation on a “recurring basis” to continually remove duplications within the public service, which will be “informed by feedback from stakeholders and an ongoing… review of regulatory requirements.” “Such burden can emerge over time as technologies, practices, products and markets evolve,” read the government document. “Recurring red tape reduction legislation is part of a broad set of actions underway to reduce red tape and strengthen Canada’s competitiveness while maintaining important and necessary protections.” The Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act and the Boards of Trade Act, both of which are also under ISED’s portfolio, were also captured by S-7. Last year, Prime Minister Mark Carney (Nepean, Ont.) ordered a review of government agencies and departments to identify red tape and duplicative processes that could be addressed. In a statement, Treasury Board President Shafqat Ali (Brampton—Chinguacousy Park, Ont.) said Ottawa has “made progress in removing unnecessary barriers, updating outdated rules and making government work better for Canadians.” “ builds on that work and supports a more modern, efficient and competitive regulatory system,” he said. S-7 is currently at second reading in the Senate and will need to pass through both chambers of Parliament before the amendments take effect. dlegree@thewirereport.ca

Liberals propose amendments to Radiocommunication Act in effort to reduce red tape

Regulatory |
By Davis Legree
|October 8, 2026

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Liberals propose amendments to Radiocommunication Act in effort to reduce red tape

Regulatory | By Davis Legree |October 8, 2026

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By Davis Legree
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