On Thursday, November 9, 2023, the provincial government of Saskatchewan introduced its franchise legislation bill, titled Bill 149, The Franchise Disclosure Act (the Bill) for first reading in the provincial legislature.
As we previously reported, Saskatchewan’s proposed legislation was recently announced and has been the subject of public consultation. The Bill appears to be substantially based on British Columbia’s Franchises Act, S.B.C. 2015, c. 35 (the BC Act).
The Bill is expected to be read a second time during the next sitting of the provincial legislature and, if following the usual course, will receive assent in the Spring of 2024. It will come into force by Order in Council at a future date. During this time, the regulations to the franchise legislation will be prepared. The actual timing of when Saskatchewan’s franchise legislation will come into force is unknown at this time.
In the meantime, we are in the process of reviewing the Bill and will determine if there are any significant differences as compared to other provincial franchise legislation in Canada. Franchisors currently operating in Saskatchewan should consult with their legal advisors to ensure they are aware of important timelines and updates with respect to these legislative developments.
See here for the full text of the Bill.
Cassels will continue to monitor important developments as the Bill moves through committee and subsequent readings.