Alberta Opts Out of Ottawa’s Gun Buyback: Impact on Local Owners
The Canadian federal government’s national gun buyback initiative is encountering significant resistance in Alberta. The provincial government has opted out of enforcing or participating in the program, affecting local gun owners considerably.
Overview of the Gun Buyback Program
Launched to address concerns over “assault-style” firearms, the program emerged after a ban on approximately 2,500 firearm models in 2020. The government classified these weapons as unsuitable for hunting or sport.
Alberta’s Legislative Response
In December, Alberta’s government passed legislation refusing to partake in the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program (ASFCP). This refusal also extends to local law enforcement agencies, limiting their involvement in the program.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- March 31: Deadline for gun owners to express interest in the buyback program.
- October 30: End of the amnesty period for possessing banned firearms.
Impact on Gun Owners in Alberta
Despite opting out, Albertans can still submit declarations of interest. However, they will not be eligible for compensation unless local authorities also participate in the program.
Teri Bryant, Alberta’s chief firearms officer, noted that it falls to the federal government to manage the program in the province. She emphasized that Alberta taxpayers will not finance the initiative and confirmed that local law enforcement would refrain from handling firearms under this framework.
Federal Government’s Stance
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree acknowledged ongoing legal hurdles but insisted on compliance with federal laws regarding banned firearms. He mentioned that the federal budget for the gun buyback exceeds $248 million, allocating funds for approximately 136,000 prohibited firearms.
Potential Compensation Concerns
Gun owners who declare their firearms by the deadline anticipate compensation within 45 business days of validation. Nonetheless, declaring interest does not guarantee payment, as each submission undergoes review before approval.
A spokesperson for Public Safety Canada advised that Albertans could only receive compensation if local jurisdictions permit it. The federal government continues to encourage Alberta to offer residents a path to seek compensation.
Local Reactions and Future Prospects
Some local firearms businesses, such as Sterling Arms International, have expressed skepticism regarding the program’s reliability. Past interactions with the federal government left them with concerns about delayed payments and uncertainties regarding compensation.
Voluntary Surrender of Firearms
Gun owners in Alberta who wish to dispose of their prohibited firearms can still surrender them to the police without compensation. The Calgary Police Service confirmed that while they will not participate in the buyback, they will accept voluntary turns-in. Last year, over 450 firearms were surrendered to local law enforcement.
