New Traffic Safety Act Introduced

A new Traffic Safety Act was introduced today, September 23, to make it easier and faster to implement changes that will modernize the rules of the road and improve safety for Nova Scotians on roads and highways across the province.

“The new act simplifies how we will administer these changes so we can deliver a modern set of laws years sooner than would otherwise be possible,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley. “These updates respect the intent of the original act by prioritizing the safety of Nova Scotians.”

The original Traffic Safety Act, passed with all-party support in 2018, was intended to replace the Motor Vehicle Act but was not proclaimed. Following consultation on the draft regulations, it was determined that implementation would be too complex and take too long. It will be repealed.

The new act will allow for easier updates and clarify language. It will also:

• protect pedestrians, motorcyclists, construction workers and other vulnerable users
• implement distracted driving rules that address current technology
• create a framework for inclusive cyclist rules of the road in regulations
• update language and responsibilities for municipal traffic authorities
• create a framework to improve child passenger safety, driver visibility and vehicle condition standards
• allow for clearer rules for emergency vehicles, school buses and emerging vehicle types.

The government will consult directly with partners and other interest groups over the coming months, and the act will be proclaimed and implemented in early 2026. People can also send feedback on the new act to: tsa@novascotia.ca

In addition to the new legislation, Department staff have been working to modernize the systems that support the Registry of Motor Vehicles and improve services for citizens.

Quotes:

“As a partner in road safety, the Nova Scotia RCMP welcomes this initiative to increase public awareness and understanding of the rules and regulations in place to help ensure the safety of all road users.”
— Sgt. John White, Nova Scotia RCMP Traffic Services

“The proposed Transportation Safety Act recognizes that there are more than just motor vehicles on the road and includes some important safeguards for cyclists and other vulnerable road users. As cycling as a mode of transportation and recreation activity continues to grow in Nova Scotia, we look forward to working with the Nova Scotia government to improve road safety for all users.”
— Mike Todd, Executive Director, Cycling Nova Scotia

Quick Facts:

• under the Motor Vehicle Act, addressing new road safety issues required changing the act
• under the new act, changes will be made in phases through updates to the regulations

Additional Resources:

More information about the Traffic Safety Act is available at: https://novascotia.ca/tsa

Bills tabled in the legislature are available at: https://nslegislature.ca/legislative-business/bills-statutes/bills/assembly-65-session-1

Department of Public Works on X: https://x.com/NS_PublicWorks