In order to produce a good final product, there is always a remarkable team of individuals – collaborating and contributing – behind the scenes. As Chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology, I would like to thank each individual who helped to ensure that our statutory review of Canada’s Anti‑Spam Legislation (CASL) was rigorous and comprehensive.

The statutory review of CASL took place between September 26 and December 12, 2017. Throughout that period, the Committee held 13 meetings, heard from 41 witnesses and received 29 briefs from a wide array of stakeholders and experts. The recommendations presented herein to the Government of Canada carefully reflect and acknowledge the evidence and concerns received by the Committee.

Ever since its enactment, CASL’s main challenge remains to balance, on the one hand, restricting the transmission of unsolicited commercial electronic messages in order to limit the costs associated with such messages and protecting Canadians against spam, and, on the other, allowing individuals and organizations to promote their lawful activities. Meeting this challenge requires clear legislative action that does not lead to unintended consequences.

The recommendations made in this report also recognize that the Government of Canada should seize the opportunity to facilitate compliance with the legislation. While the Committee supports the principles and aims pursued by CASL, steps may be taken to ensure that the Act continues “to promote the efficiency and adaptability of the Canadian economy.”

Dan Ruimy, M.P. Chair