Alberta’s government has introduced legislation that would significantly update animal protection laws that have remained largely unchanged for about two decades.

Bill 22, the Animal Protection Amendment Act, 2026, was tabled March 30 and is intended to modernize how authorities respond to animals in distress and strengthen enforcement tools available to courts and inspectors.

The proposed changes revise definitions related to animal distress, care responsibilities and abandonment, with the intent of reflecting current standards and closing gaps in enforcement. The legislation would also give officials clearer authority to issue corrective orders and follow up to ensure compliance when animals are found at risk.

Court powers would also expand under the bill. Judges could apply broader prohibition orders aimed at preventing repeat offences, along with stronger mechanisms to ensure those orders are followed. The legislation would allow Alberta to recognize and enforce similar orders issued in other provinces and territories.

Financial penalties would increase substantially if the bill passes, with maximum fines rising from $20,000 to $250,000.

Inspection authority would also be updated, including provisions that extend oversight to additional animal-related businesses such as boarding and grooming facilities.

The province has indicated the amendments are meant to bring Alberta in line with other jurisdictions and improve outcomes for animals by enabling earlier intervention and more consistent enforcement. The changes would take effect at a later date if the legislation is approved, alongside related updates to regulations expected later in 2026.