Quebec tables domestic violence legislation

The sister of a Quebec woman allegedly killed by her partner is urging politicians at the provincial legislature to set partisanship aside and rapidly adopt new legislation that takes aim at intimate partner violence.

The Coalition Avenir Québec government tabled the legislation on Thursday. If adopted, it would introduce new tools allowing people who fear for their safety or that of their children to obtain information about whether their partner or ex-partner has a history of domestic violence.

Speaking at a press conference in Quebec City, Rachel Renaud, said she hoped the bill would be adopted before the legislation adjourns for the summer.

Renaud said her life has been a nightmare ever since police told her last September that her sister, Gabie Renaud, had been killed.

''I refuse to let people look the other way, I refuse to let our family live through this nightmare in silence,'' said Renaud, fighting back tears. "No woman should have to live in fear. No woman should have to be controlled, humiliated, beaten or terrorized by someone who claims to love her."

Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette pledged to introduce the legislation during the leadership race to become head of the Coalition Avenir Québec.

The provincial legislature is scheduled to sit for another four weeks before it adjourns for the summer break, ahead of a general election in the fall.

Deputy Premier Ian Lafrenière, who tabled the legislation, praised Renaud's advocacy, saying he was happy she was at the legislature to promote the bill, describing it as a "significant" step forward.

"I hope we can move forward with this file," he said at a separate news conference. "It's what people expect of us."

Under the proposed legislation, applicants would need to complete a form, either online or at a police station, to request information about their partner. As well, the law would allow anyone 14 years and older old to request the information on behalf of a person at risk.

The request would be reviewed by the Quebec provincial police, which would conduct checks on the individual in question. Any information deemed relevant would be shared with the applicant through a designated support organization, which has yet to be identified.

Renaud said she hoped Quebec would go further with plans to address domestic violence, including offering more places in shelters for victims. She also called for tougher sentences that recognize the serious of the crimes and take aim at repeat offenders.

Opposition party Québec solidaire also campaigned for the adoption of the bill, inspired by “Clare’s Law,'' which was enacted in England following the murder of Clare Wood by her ex-partner in 2009. He had a history of violence against women.

Last month, an open letter in favour of the bill was signed by some 600 people.

Similar legislation exists in several Canadian provinces, including Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

Fréchette has also promised to give additional resources to shelters and organizations that help women who are victims of domestic violence.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 13, 2026.

By Thomas Laberge | Copyright 2026, The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.