Montreal’s municipal government announced on Thursday that a new regulation now makes it illegal to direct verbal insults at police officers or city employees. The rule, adopted by the city council, establishes monetary penalties for anyone who breaches the prohibition. The measure takes effect immediately and applies across the entire jurisdiction of the city.
The bylaw was approved by council members during a session held on September 22, 2026. Under the new regulation, both members of the Montreal municipal police force and other municipal staff are afforded legal protection against verbal abuse. Individuals found to have insulted these workers may be subject to fines, though the specific amounts were not disclosed in the council’s announcement.
City officials said the regulation is intended to safeguard municipal personnel who perform essential services for residents. By criminalizing insults, the city aims to create a more respectful environment for those who interact daily with the public. The move follows growing concerns about the treatment of public servants in the province and reflects a broader effort to address harassment directed at municipal workers.