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Legislation from the Manitoba government is aimed at regulating the sale of long-bladed weapons, including machetes, knives, and swords, Justice Minister Matt Wiebe announced Wednesday.
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“Our government is committed to getting tough on crime and this new legislation would help keep our communities safer by restricting access to weapons such as machetes, knives and swords,” said Wiebe. “We’ve heard loud and clear: the purchase of these weapons needs to be restricted. We’re pleased to be moving forward to take real action to make our streets safer.”
Bill 39, known as the long-bladed weapon control act, seeks to limit access to long-bladed weapons by:
– Requiring retailers to securely store long-bladed weapons
– Prohibiting the retail sale of long-bladed weapons to minors under 18
– Requiring purchasers to provide photo identification
– Mandating retailers to retain transaction records for two years
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“Manitoba has seen significant success in deterring crime through regulating the retail sale of products targeted for criminal purposes,” said Wiebe. He noted that access controls and identification requirements have been effective in combatting crime.
The bill defines long-bladed weapons as those with a blade of at least 30 centimetres. The definition may be expanded based on community safety needs.
Acting Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs expressed support for the legislation, “I want to recognize and applaud the efforts of the minister of justice to address the concerns put forth by First Nations leadership.”
The legislation would also apply to online sales of long-bladed weapons to Manitoba addresses. Scot Halley, president of the Manitoba Association of Chiefs of Police, stated that the association supports the legislation, highlighting the rise in edged weapon attacks.
If passed, the bill will take effect upon proclamation and will include additional regulations developed in consultation with retail businesses, law enforcement, and Indigenous leadership.
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