Montreal Bans Insults Against City Staff

Montreal city council adopted a bylaw banning insults, harassment and threats against police and municipal employees, with fines of $300 to $1,000 for a first offence and up to $2,000 for repeat offences. The vote passed 35 to 25 after opposition councillors criticized the lack of clear definitions and public consultation. Civil rights groups warn the bylaw could infringe on freedom of expression.