Up to 10k fine for individuals guilty of electoral misinformation

A woman casts her ballot at an advance polling station in the town of Hudson, Quebec, on Monday, March 31, 2014. (The Canadian Press/Graham Hughes)

Faced with the problem of misinformation on social media, Elections Québec is cracking down.

Starting in July 2026, anyone who impersonates an election candidate or spreads false information about the electoral process with the intent to deceive will be liable to a fine of up to $10,000.

“This offence could apply to a person who intends to influence the results of an election or undermine public confidence in the electoral process,” according to a press release from Elections Québec.

It targets individuals who spread misinformation about how to vote, the counting of ballots, election results or a candidate.

A person guilty of spreading misinformation will also be prohibited from voting and running for election for a period of five years.

An organization or company that spreads misinformation could be fined up to $30,000.

“Higher fines are planned for any repeat offences within the next 10 years,” says Elections Québec.

This new offence stems from the adoption of Bill 98 last Friday.

The next provincial elections will take place in October 2026.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French June 2, 2025.