Overview
- Bill C-25, which passed second reading Friday, advanced to committee with cross-party backing that included Conservative support.
- The proposal would bar cryptocurrency donations across the federal system, covering parties, riding associations, candidates, leadership and nomination contests, and third-party advertisers.
- If a prohibited crypto contribution is received, the recipient must return it within 30 days or send the funds to the Receiver General of Canada.
- Elections Canada has allowed crypto gifts since 2019, yet major parties have not used them, and the Chief Electoral Officer shifted in 2024 to urge a full ban over pseudo-anonymity and ID-check hurdles.
- There is no date set for committee study, and the bill must still clear further House votes, pass the Senate, and receive royal assent before it can become law.