Alberta Gunshot and Stab Reporting Legislation
May 6, 2009No CommentsNew legislation aims to improve community safety
Gunshot and stab wound reporting helps prevent further violence
Edmonton… A new piece of legislation making it mandatory for health care facilities and emergency medical technicians to report gunshot and stab wounds was introduced in the Legislature on May 5.
“This proposed legislation supports our government’s commitment to safer communities because the information police receive as a result of this legislation can help them prevent further violence, injury or death,” said Fred Lindsay, Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security. “Gunshot and stab wounds pose a public safety concern and this Bill identifies and addresses this important public safety matter.”Bill 46 the Gunshot and Stab Wound Mandatory Disclosure Act deals with individuals who are dropped off or show up at emergency rooms or health centres seeking treatment for gunshot or stab wounds. The proposed legislation ensures police would only be provided with limited information, such as the patient’s name, location of health facility and type of wound, not the individual’s health details.
Health Care, Justice, Legislative