Quebec’s government is moving forward with sweeping changes to its language laws that will significantly affect how businesses operate across the province. Under the updated legislation stemming from Bill 96, companies must adhere to stricter French language requirements in the workplace, on signage, and in customer service. These reforms are part of Quebec’s broader efforts to strengthen the presence of French as the official and predominant language in all spheres of public life.
Here are five essential things businesses should know about the new rules:
1. French Must Be Prominently Displayed on Signage
Businesses in Quebec are now required to ensure that French text on exterior signage is “markedly predominant” over any other language. This means that French must be twice as large or significantly more visible than any other language, including English. The new rules apply to all commercial signage visible from outside, including store names and marketing materials.
2. Employee Communications Must Be in French
Internal communications within businesses—including training documents, HR policies, and employee handbooks—must be made available in French. While multilingual materials can still be offered, French must always be provided and must not be inferior in quality or completeness. This applies to companies with 25 or more employees.
3. Customer Service Must Be Offered in French
Businesses are now legally obligated to offer customer service in French, regardless of the customer’s preferred language. While bilingual service is still permitted, staff must be able to serve clients effectively in French. Companies failing to comply could face complaints and penalties from Quebec’s language watchdog, the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF).
4. Contracts and Commercial Documents Must Be in French First
Contracts, invoices, and other commercial documents must now be drafted in French before any translation is provided. This includes agreements between businesses and consumers, as well as B2B contracts. Even if both parties prefer another language, a French version must be presented first.
5. Increased Role for the Language Office and Higher Penalties
The OQLF now has greater enforcement powers under the revised law. The agency can initiate investigations, issue compliance orders, and impose fines more easily. Businesses found in violation of the language laws could face stiff financial penalties and even lose certain government permits or funding.
These new rules reflect the Quebec government’s intensified push to protect and promote the French language, particularly in a globalized economy where English often dominates. Businesses operating in Quebec—whether local or international—will need to make significant adjustments to comply with the law or risk enforcement actions.
Experts recommend that companies begin reviewing their signage, employee policies, customer service practices, and legal documentation now to ensure full compliance before penalties take effect. The changes are expected to impact not only day-to-day operations but also corporate branding, human resources, and client communications.
Swifteradio.com
