Regulatory Development

Instrument choice is considered early in the policy development process. A broad spectrum of instruments for government action exists for advancing public policy, and a mix of instruments is often most effective.

When a regulation is the selected instrument choice, the federal law-making process must be followed to bring the regulation into force. During this process, stakeholders have opportunities to comment and provide input to the proposal for the regulation when the proposal is published in the Canada Gazette for the first time. The Canada Gazette allows the Government to hear Canadians' voices and make transparent the regulatory proposal to Canadians.

As outlined in the Regulatory Roadmap for Health Products and Food, the regulatory frameworks for health products and food are being updated.  In parallel with each of the regulatory proposals, Health Canada prepares for consultations and effective implementation.  This could include revising guidance documents, training for employees and operational transition planning.

Continue to monitor progress and provide your thoughts and insights by signing up to receive updates, and by checking back on the consultations underway.

Useful Tools & References

• Cabinet Directive on Streamlining Regulation
• Treasury Board Guide to the Federal Regulatory Development Process
• Assessing, Selecting, and Implementing Instruments for Government Action
• Progressive Licensing Project