Quebec watchdog recommends major reforms to lobbying rules after auto board scandal

Signage for the Societe de l'assurance automobile du Quebec (SAAQ) is photographed in Montreal on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christopher Katsarov

MONTREAL — A Quebec watchdog is calling for major reforms to provincial lobbying rules.

Speaking at a news conference in Quebec City, Jean-François Routhier said the existing rules are outdated and insufficient.

He wants to see a series of changes to improve transparency.

Routhier says his recommendations are following up on a recent public inquiry into a scandal at the provincial auto insurance board.

The provincial board rolled out a new online platform in 2023 that was meant to improve access to services, but instead led to long lineups and cost overruns.

The inquiry’s commissioner would later recommend a series of changes, including a full reform of the province’s existing lobbying legislation from 2002.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 26, 2026.