Alberta’s information and privacy commissioner has raised concerns over the recent passage of Bill 31, which allows Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) to sell users’ personal information to private entities. This legislation creates an exemption to the Protection of Privacy Act (POPA), which previously prohibited public bodies from selling personal data, provided that cabinet ensures adequate protections are in place. Commissioner Diane McLeod emphasized that this is a troubling precedent, as it would be the first instance of a public body selling personal information under POPA. Currently, Play Alberta, AGLC’s online gambling platform, has about 434,000 registered accounts, and while Minister Dale Nally stated there are no immediate plans to sell the platform, potential buyers have expressed interest. If a sale occurs, customers would have the option to opt out and delete their information.
Why It Matters
The implications of Bill 31 are significant as they challenge established privacy protections in Alberta. The original Protection of Privacy Act was designed to safeguard citizens’ personal data from commercial exploitation, and this new legislation could open the door for similar exemptions in the future. With the growing market for online gambling, the AGLC has reported $267 million in net sales for Play Alberta in the 2024-25 year, highlighting the financial stakes involved in this policy shift. The introduction of private companies into Alberta’s online gambling landscape on July 13, 2026, further underscores the importance of robust privacy measures as competition intensifies.
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