November 27, 2025
Web desk
The Quebec government has introduced a new bill aimed at expanding its secularism framework by limiting public prayer and extending the ban on religious symbols to subsidized daycare workers. Bill 9, titled An Act Respecting the Reinforcement of Laicity in Québec, builds on earlier secularism measures enacted by the Coalition Avenir Québec under Premier François Legault.
The proposed legislation would prohibit daycare staff and private school employees from wearing visible religious symbols, including hijabs, though workers already employed in their roles would be exempt. It also prevents public institutions from offering food exclusively tied to a religious tradition, such as halal or kosher meals.
Another major component of the bill is the ban on group prayers in public institutions and public spaces such as parks, roads, and government buildings unless municipalities grant specific authorization. The bill additionally seeks to phase out public funding for religious private schools that select students or staff based on faith or teach religious content.
Bill 9 also calls for repealing the Freedom of Worship Act, which previously protected the unrestricted practice of religious worship. The government argues these changes are necessary to reinforce Quebec’s commitment to state neutrality, while critics warn the measures could further restrict religious expression.
