Newfoundland and Labrador’s Bill 38 – the act which gives police extra powers during the pandemic – is going to be challenged in court.

The controversial amendment was passed in the House of Assembly, but some who voted for it, particularly the PCs, now wish to see the Legislature recalled in order to repeal or change it. The second thoughts come after a woman was denied permission to enter the province to attend her mother’s funeral.

The Canadian Civil Liberties Association says there is no evidence that imposing such restrictions on people is necessary.

Newfoundland and Labrador has only one active case of COVID-19 outside the hospital setting leaving many, including some doctors, to call for restrictions to be lifted.

The Liberties Association says people who had to enter the province prior to the implementation of Bill 38 had to self-isolate for a period, and there’s no indication that was inadequate.

The association says, “better safe than sorry” does not hold up in court when it comes to Charter rights.

The provincial government stands by their actions.