Opposition House Leader and Interlake–Gimli MLA Derek Johnson has introduced legislation aimed at protecting property owners from lawsuits filed by criminals injured while trespassing.
Bill 222, the Occupiers’ Liability Amendment Act, would prevent property owners from being held legally responsible if someone unlawfully enters their property with the intent to commit a crime and is injured or killed.
The bill acknowledges that rural properties and farms can present unique risks and seeks to ensure owners aren’t unfairly targeted by legal action from individuals who break the law.
However, property owners could still be held liable if their actions are deemed intentional, excessively forceful, and result in a criminal conviction.
Bill 222 would also amend the Limitations Act to pause the time limit for filing a civil claim until any related criminal charges have been resolved.
“This bill strikes a fair balance for property owners by protecting them from lawsuits filed by criminals who trespass,” said Johnson. “At the same time, it ensures accountability in cases of clear wrongdoing and excessive force.”
