Montreal city council introduced a municipal bylaw that would make intimidation, harassment, threats, insults or any abusive conduct toward a municipal employee on duty punishable by fines of up to $2,000. The measure targets all city workers, including police officers, who are performing their official duties.
The proposed legislation defines prohibited behavior as any act that seeks to intimidate, harass or threaten a municipal employee, as well as any verbal or non‑verbal insult or abusive action directed at them while they are on the job. Violations would be subject to a monetary penalty not exceeding $2,000 per incident.
Council members presented the bylaw as a step toward safeguarding public servants from hostile interactions that have become more frequent in recent years. By establishing clear financial consequences, the city aims to deter conduct that undermines the safety and dignity of its workforce.
The bylaw is scheduled for a vote in the coming week, giving councilors a short window to debate its provisions before it can be adopted. If passed, the regulation would join a suite of initiatives the municipality has launched to improve safety and promote respect for those who serve the public.
City officials indicated that the fine structure is intended to be proportionate and enforceable, allowing police officers and other municipal staff to report incidents without fear of retaliation. The council hopes the new rule will send a clear message that abusive behavior toward municipal employees will no longer be tolerated.
The proposal reflects a broader effort by Montreal to address concerns raised by employees who have faced harassment while carrying out essential services. Should the bylaw be approved, it will provide a legal tool to hold offenders accountable and reinforce a culture of respect in the city's public spaces.