The Alberta provincial government has outlined its strategy to oppose the federal gun buyback program, labeling it as an unconstitutional infringement on the rights of Albertans. The policy, disclosed in an order paper on Tuesday, asserts that firearm ownership falls strictly under provincial jurisdiction. In contrast, a spokesperson for the federal government’s public safety ministry, Simon Lafortune, stated that the Parliament of Canada has constitutional authority over firearms legislation.
The new motion under the Alberta Sovereignty within a United Canada Act cites the Alberta Bill of Rights, guaranteeing the right to possess, retain, and use firearms, along with the right to fair compensation for property seizure. The motion pledges to employ all legal avenues to actively counter the federal initiative, which includes the ban on numerous firearms and a voluntary buyback program called the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program.
Alberta’s Justice Minister, Mickey Amery, criticized the federal ban, emphasizing that transforming legally owned firearms into prohibited ones does not enhance public safety but penalizes law-abiding citizens. The motion, aimed at circumventing federal laws, ensures that Alberta will not participate in enforcing the federal policy. Premier Danielle Smith emphasized at the United Conservative Party’s convention the right to self-defense within one’s home.
Legal experts like Shawn King and Gerard Kennedy have expressed concerns about the clarity and implications of the motion. King highlighted the importance of precise language to avoid misunderstandings that may lead to criminal acts under false legal beliefs. Kennedy affirmed the Alberta government’s right to challenge federal actions but noted the limitations on overturning federal laws.
The proposed measures by Alberta to oppose the federal firearms program include withholding resources for enforcement and prosecution purposes. Amery emphasized providing guidance to Crown lawyers on prosecution related to defending property and protecting individuals. However, critics like NDP justice critic Irfan Sabir questioned the practicality and legality of such guidelines, labeling them as political theater.
Federal Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree reiterated the federal government’s commitment to collaborating with provinces on the buyback program. He cautioned that provinces hindering the compensation program are ultimately harming their citizens. The federal ban on assault-style firearms and the voluntary buyback program aim to reduce the possession of such weapons, with potential legal consequences for non-compliance after the amnesty period expires on October 30, 2026.