Clare’s Law enacted in Manitoba, giving access to a partner’s history of violence

Starting this month, Manitobans who believe they may be at risk of intimate partner violence can apply for disclosure about a partner’s history of violence. Clare’s Law is now officially in force, with applications being accepted across the province.

The legislation was passed in 2022. It allows someone in a current or former intimate relationship to apply for information about a partner’s documented history of violence. If disclosure is approved, that information is shared verbally, alongside risk assessment, safety planning, and connections to community-based supports.

“More people are safe, more women are safe in our province. It’s a challenge we need to all work on together, but this is one common-sense step I think everyone can support,” said Premier Wab Kinew.

MLA Jodie Byram says the nearly two-year gap between the bill passing and coming into force raises concerns, and says she also questions regulations limiting disclosures to convictions and local police records.

“This is one thing they could have done early on in their government to help protect people, and they delayed it,” said Byram.

“Notice is good, and notice needs to be granted, but it’s a verbal notice; I think that opens up room for miscommunication.”

The Manitoba Association of Women’s Shelters (MAWS), which supports emergency shelters across the province, says Clare’s Law represents a meaningful step forward.

“For someone who is entering into a new relationship or considering it, they can see and receive information about a partners past history of violence,” said Tsungai Muvingi Van Landeghem, the provincial coordinator for MAWS.

MAWS says connecting disclosure to safety planning and community resources is critical, especially as they say shelters across Manitoba continue operating at or near capacity.

“We’re also hoping that we don’t continue to have situations when people come into shelter, and they have nowhere to go for their next step, and they are returning to their abusive partners,” said Van Landeghem.