What Small Businesses Need to Know About Bill 96
The Quebec government recently tabled Bill 96, which proposes major changes to the province’s Charter of the French Language. The bill aims to strengthen the use of French in Quebec, including in the workplace, and could have significant implications for small businesses in the province. Here’s what small business owners need to know about Bill 96:
Background
The Charter of the French Language, commonly known as Bill 101, was first enacted in 1977 and established French as the official language of Quebec. The charter aimed to protect and promote the French language in all areas of public life, including education, government, and commerce. Bill 96, which was tabled in May 2021, seeks to update and reinforce the provisions of Bill 101.
What Does Bill 96 Propose?
Bill 96 contains a range of proposed changes, including:
– Requiring all businesses with at least 25 employees to obtain a French-language certificate, which would attest to their ability to conduct their operations in French. Businesses that are not in compliance could face fines and other penalties.
– Giving the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF) broader powers to monitor and enforce compliance with the language requirements. This includes the power to investigate and issue fines for non-compliance.
– Requiring all businesses to include a French-language description of their products and services in all marketing materials, presentations, and websites.
– Making French the sole language of instruction in the majority of primary and secondary schools in Quebec, including for children of immigrants whose first language is not French.
What Are the Implications for Small Businesses?
For small businesses, the proposed changes under Bill 96 could have a significant impact. The requirement for a French-language certificate, for example, could create an additional administrative burden and cost. Some small businesses may need to invest in language training or translate their operations into French.
The OQLF’s expanded enforcement powers could also mean that small businesses face a greater risk of fines and penalties for non-compliance. It will be important for small businesses to ensure that they understand their obligations under the proposed changes and take steps to comply with them.
The requirement for French-language marketing materials and websites could also create challenges for small businesses that rely heavily on digital marketing and e-commerce. Small businesses may need to invest in translation services or work with French-speaking employees or contractors to ensure compliance with the new requirements.
What Can Small Businesses Do?
Small businesses can take a range of steps to prepare for the proposed changes under Bill 96. Some key strategies include:
– Evaluating their current language capabilities and identifying areas where they may need to invest in language training or translation services.
– Developing a plan to obtain a French-language certificate and ensuring that all employees are aware of the new requirements.
– Reviewing all marketing materials and websites to ensure that they include a French-language description of products and services.
– Staying up to date on any further developments related to Bill 96 and seeking guidance from experts on how best to comply with the new requirements.
Conclusion
Bill 96 represents a major shift in Quebec’s approach to language policy, and small businesses in particular will need to be prepared for the proposed changes. While compliance may require additional investment and effort, taking proactive steps now can help small businesses avoid fines and penalties in the future and better position themselves for success in Quebec’s French-speaking market.
