Bill C-292: An Act to amend the Criminal Code (victim protection)

This bill primarily targets individuals and organized networks involved in human trafficking and sexual exploitation rather than mainstream businesses. Legitimate businesses most likely to feel indirect effects are those in industries sometimes exploited for trafficking — such as massage parlours, escort or adult entertainment services, hospitality, and temporary labour agencies — where operators could now face heavier financial penalties (up to $100,000 in fines) alongside imprisonment if found to be benefiting from trafficking. The removal of the 'reasonable apprehension of fear' standard lowers the evidentiary bar for prosecuting trafficking, meaning those in grey-area operations face greater legal exposure. The bill applies nationally across all provinces, and business size is less relevant than the nature of the activity.