Quebec passed a law today that bans the wearing of veils or face coverings for public service workers, and for anyone receiving public services.
Bill 62 would prevent people in Quebec from accessing public services, like transit, while wearing face coverings like burqas or niqabs.
The controversial religious neutrality bill comes after 10 years of debate in Quebec on the issue.
"Today, we have lived a pivotal moment for Quebec by adopting this law, which brings together the elements that are consensus and that is respectful of the democratic, pluralistic and inclusive society that we are,” said Stéphanie Vallée, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Québec
“This law is also in keeping with the rights and freedoms guaranteed by our charters. The measures proposed in this act will have a major positive impact on social cohesion that Quebecers have been asking for too long."
Lawmakers voted 66-51 to approve Bill 62, which the Quebec’s Ministry of Justice says promotes religious neutrality of the State.
