FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 29, 2026
Firearms Violence Prevention Act Regulations Signal Continued Progress on Community Safety in BC
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA — The British Columbia Association of Chiefs of Police (BCACP) supports the Province’s newly released regulations under the Firearms Violence Prevention Act (FVPA) and welcomes continued collaboration with government as implementation moves forward.
“These regulations are an important step in strengthening community safety across British Columbia,” said Deputy Chief Andrew Chan, President of the BC Association of Chiefs of Police. “Gang and gun violence continues to impact our communities, and police leaders are committed to working with government to ensure these measures are implemented effectively. As we move toward implementation, a coordinated and well-supported rollout across agencies will be critical.”
The updated regulations close key gaps in the federal framework by limiting youth access to imitation firearms and introducing new measures related to vehicles and firearms. Together, these changes reflect a more modern approach to disrupting gang and organized crime activity.
As these measures come into force on October 1, 2026, BCACP looks forward to working with government to ensure officers have the training, guidance, and resources needed for a smooth and coordinated rollout. This includes supporting the development of training, providing operational clarity for police agencies, and contributing to public education materials.
“We all share the same goal: safer communities across our province,” added Chan. “The next five months will be important to ensure police agencies are fully prepared and that the transition is thoughtful, practical, and aligned with our shared commitment to public safety.”
BCACP remains dedicated to constructive partnership with government and will continue to contribute leadership and operational insight as the FVPA regulations are brought into effect.
Media Contact
Leanne MacLeod
Interim Executive Director
BC Association of Chiefs of Police
leanne.macleod@bcacp.ca
About BCACP
The British Columbia Association of Chiefs of Police is the professional voice of policing leadership in the province, representing senior police leaders dedicated to promoting public safety and effective, equitable policing services for all communities.