Anti-Protest Laws in Quebec

Today, May 22, marks one hundred days of continuous protests, which have often turned into riots in Montreal and Quebec City.

Most of the protesters have been college students angry over various social and economic issues, but mostly over tuition increases.

On Friday, Quebec's provincial legislature voted 68-48 for a new emergency law, Bill 78.

The new law pauses the current school year at schools affected by strikes; allows for large fines on anyone who tries blocking access to a school; and limits where, how, and for how long people can protest in Quebec.

Critics were quick to speak out against the approval of the bill, calling it the worst and most abusive law ever seen. The head of the Quebec Bar Association, Louis Masson, said Bill 78 violates constitutional rights, including freedom of speech and the right to demonstrate peacefully.

Bill 78 expires July of 2013.

Around the province, legislation was also approved for various other anti protest laws, including one which makes wearing masks illegal, at protests in Montreal.