Should Measurement Standards for Scales and Meters Be Updated?
Official title: Bill S-3, An Act to amend the Weights and Measures Act, the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act, the Weights and Measures Regulations and the Electricity and Gas Inspection Regulations
A Senate bill proposes updates to how Canada regulates weighing devices and electricity and gas meters. The changes would give inspectors clearer powers to check if scales at grocery stores, gas pumps, and utility meters are accurate. It also lets the Minister require fixes when devices aren't measuring correctly.
Why This Matters
Ever wonder if the scale at the deli counter is accurate? Or if your gas pump is giving you a full litre? This bill affects how the government checks those devices. If measurement standards slip, you could be paying for more than you get.
What Could Change
Inspectors would get clearer authority to sample and test weighing devices and meters. The Minister could order businesses to fix or replace inaccurate equipment. The definition of 'meter' would expand to cover newer types of electricity and gas measurement devices.
Key Issues
- Should inspectors have expanded powers to sample and test measurement devices?
- Should the Minister be able to require corrective measures when devices are inaccurate?
- Should the definition of 'meter' be broadened to cover new technologies?
How to Participate
- Read the text of Bill S-3 to understand the proposed changes.
- The bill is being studied by the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Commerce and the Economy. Check their website for opportunities to submit a brief or appear as a witness.