Today is a great day for Madi’s Law. Welcome, MP Todd Doherty (Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention) and his team! We’re So glad you’re here! They are going to be assisting in the next steps towards legislation. We’re progressing towards our goal of safer practices for antidepressants/psychotropic drugs. We’re progressing towards Madi’s Law saving lives!
As mentioned below in the correspondence with MP Todd Doherty’s office, “The Private Member's Bill (PMB) process is both lengthy and usually unlikely to succeed”. I believe in positive thoughts. Remember that is was “unlikely “ that we would get this far, yet here we are! I believe in miracles and this is indeed a Christmas miracle! Please continue to support Madi’s Law.The more signatures the better. We can absolutely do this!
Good morning Mrs. Carter,
I'm writing to confirm that we have received your correspondence regarding Madi's Law. From the bottom of my heart, I'm so sorry to hear about your daughter's tragedy.
I think you bring up a very interesting idea for a Private Member's Bill. I have spoken to MP Doherty about this, and we are interested in pursuing it. I will be sending a draft based on your petition to our legislative drafters in the near future to seek advice as to how we can draft a Bill that would adequately address the problem. I anticipate they might identify some issues regarding consent, but we'll see.
I also don't want to make any promises we can't keep. The Private Member's Bill (PMB) process is both lengthy and usually unlikely to succeed. Further, Members are limited to 1 PMB per session of Parliament, and MP Doherty already has one (C-321) which is currently before the Senate. Members are able to introduce more than 1 Private Member's Bill, but it will not get beyond First Reading in the House of Commons. However, like I said, we will explore this idea with the legislative drafters and see whether we can introduce it to at least get it before the House and get some eyes on it.
There is also the possibility, however small, of obtaining the Unanimous Consent of the House to pass the Bill at all stages. That's the only way a member can get more than 1 PMB passed. However, we have absolutely no control over what the Senate does with it after that.
With that said, I will keep you updated on what the legislative drafters send back to me. I expect to have a draft to them before Christmas.
Thank you for reaching out, and, once again, our office sends our condolences to you and your family for your loss.
Best,
Cameron
Cameron Wilcox
Senior Communications & Parliamentary Affairs Advisor
Office of Todd Doherty