Bill S-234

In September 2025, the Honourable Senator Ravalia re-introduced a bill respecting a framework for FASD in the Senate of Canada. This Bill outlines the development of a national framework designed to support Canadians with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), their families, and their caregivers. Bill S-234 (formerly Bill S-253) represents an important step toward establishing a coordinated, evidence-based approach to prevention, diagnosis, and lifelong supports.

The Bill has now successfully passed Second Reading in the Senate, which means it has received initial approval and is moving forward for further study and debate at committee. This stage is crucial, as it provides an opportunity to strengthen and refine the legislation before it returns to the Senate for final consideration.

Why do we need a National Framework for FASD? 

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disabilities in Canada, affecting an estimated 4% of the population. The prevalence of FASD is greater than Autism, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy combined.

Not solely a healthcare issue, FASD intersects with homelessness, substance use, education, the legal system, mental health, child welfare, social services, family health, and more.

The statistics are alarming. Recent studies show 90% of people with FASD will experience mental health issues. They are over 20 times more likely to face substance use challenges. And 35% of teens with FASD report suicidal ideation, with 13% reporting at least one serious suicide attempt in the past year.

Due to its complicated nature, a systemic, coordinated, evidence-based approach to FASD prevention, diagnosis, intervention, and lifetime support is vital. We need a National FASD Framework that ensures that all people with FASD and their families have full and equitable access to the resources they need.

Timeline of the National Framework

In Canada, getting a bill passed into law is a long process. A bill must pass through both the Senate of Canada and the House of Commons before it receives Royal Assent and can be made law. We’ve come a long way towards getting a National Framework for FASD, but there’s still far to go. Check out the timeline of our success below.

  • October 19, 2022 – Senator Ravalia introduced Bill S-253: An act respecting a National Framework for FASD into the Senate of Canada
  • November 1, 2022 – Bill S-253 goes for second reading in the Senate of Canada
  • June 1, 2023 – Bill S-253 is referred to Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science, and Technology
  • March 24, 2025 – Parliament is prorogued, meaning all bills in progress in both the Senate and the House were cancelled, including Bill S-253
  • September 23, 2025 – Senator Ravalia re-introduces Bill 234, an act respecting a Framework for FASD (formerly Bill S-253)
  • September 25, 2025 – Bill S-234 goes to second reading

Learn More

What is FASD?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disability impacting the brain and body of people who were exposed to alcohol during fetal development. Each individual with FASD is unique and has areas of both strengths and challenges and will need supports to help them succeed in their daily lives.

What would a National Framework look like? 

A National Framework for FASD would:

  • Educate health care and other professional on FASD prevention, diagnosis, and support
  • Promote research and knowledge translation;
  • Set national standards for FASD prevention, diagnosis, and support;
  • Raise awareness of FASD and the risks of alcohol consumption in pregnancy; and
  • Identify any other measures necessary to improve outcomes

A National Framework would be made in consultation with other ministers, representatives from provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous communities, and relevant stakeholders including self-advocates, caregivers, service providers, and support people.

A National FASD Framework should be person-centred, include first-person perspectives, be culturally appropriate for the diversity of Canada’s population, and reflect the needs of Canada’s northern, rural, and remote communities. It would also ensure that critically needed multilevel supports are available for pregnant women and new mothers and their children, so that prevention of FASD that is effective, respectful and addresses social determinants of health receives attention and action.

Why now?

We cannot afford to wait much longer to address FASD at a national level. The annual cost per case of FASD is estimated at $27,000 and the incremental cost per case of FASD over a lifespan is estimated at $1.1 million. Many of the costs associated with FASD can be reduced with the implementation of effective leadership for social policies and intervention and support programs. These numbers don’t take into account the intangible costs of FASD, such as the cost of pain, suffering, stress, and stigmatization.

The COVID-19 pandemic only heightened the challenges that this population is facing. Canada is in desperate need for our leadership to establish a plan to support people with FASD, their families, pregnant and parenting couples, and those who assist them.

How can you help?

Community Members
Talk to Senators, Members of Parliament, and other government representatives about FASD and the need for a National FASD Framework and keep the conversation going. Learn as much as you can about FASD in your profession and within your region. Talk to your friends and family members to raise awareness.

Government Representatives
Express your support for a National FASD Framework publicly and talk about this issue amongst your colleagues and party members. Reach out to us at info@canfasd.ca to learn how FASD interacts with your field and your constituents.

Contact us at info@canfasd.ca for information about how to support a National FASD Framework in Canada