Manitoba launches consultations on artificial intelligence rules

The Manitoba government has launched provincewide public consultations focused on artificial intelligence, with the goal of strengthening data protections and setting clear rules for how the rapidly evolving technology is used.

Innovation and New Technology Minister Mike Moroz announced the initiative, saying the province wants Manitobans to help shape how AI and personal data are regulated moving forward.

“AI is advancing faster than most people realize and with that speed comes real risks, especially for children,” notes Moroz. “Manitobans deserve strong safeguards, clear rules and a government that will not hesitate to act when technology threatens privacy, safety or basic rights. Our priority is protecting kids and ensuring every Manitoban’s personal data is treated with the highest level of care."

The consultations will focus on two main priorities: modernizing Manitoba’s data privacy laws and establishing practical rules for the responsible use of AI.

Stronger protections for personal data

According to the province, the consultations will examine how Manitoba can strengthen privacy laws so residents have enforceable rights and greater control over their personal information.

Officials say the review will explore protections that ensure personal data cannot be misused, exploited or accessed without authorization. The province is also looking at how artificial intelligence systems are used to make or influence decisions that affect people’s rights, benefits or access to services.

The measures are intended to address emerging risks tied to AI technologies, including identity theft, deepfakes, biased algorithms and the misuse of personal data in both public and private systems.

Based on what Manitobans share during the consultations, the province will consider potential policy changes. Those may include setting age limits for certain technologies and requiring private-sector organizations to obtain explicit consent through an opt-in process before collecting or using personal data belonging to Manitobans.

Focus on protecting children online

The Manitoba government says protecting children and families is a key concern as artificial intelligence becomes more widespread.

Officials warn that AI tools are increasingly capable of creating manipulated content, impersonating individuals or targeting vulnerable users online.

“The rise in AI-generated child sexual abuse material and deepfakes represents a rapidly escalating threat to the safety of our children, families and communities,” says Lianna McDonald, executive director, Canadian Centre for Child Protection. “These harms are real and carry long-term consequences for survivors. Manitobans, more than ever, need their government to act decisively to protect them from online exploitation. The Canadian Centre for Child Protection commends the Manitoba government for launching these consultations and looks forward to contributing to this process.”

The consultations aim to gather feedback from a wide range of groups across the province.

The province says everyday Manitobans will be invited to take part in the discussions, along with Indigenous governments, youth, educators, researchers, municipalities, businesses, non-profit organizations and front-line civil servants.

Government officials say the process is meant to ensure future rules reflect the concerns of communities and organizations that are already encountering the impacts of artificial intelligence.

“The work ahead is not just about compliance, it is about safety, dignity and trust,” adds Moroz. “Parents are worried. Young people are being exposed to technologies that can track them, influence them or impersonate them. Manitobans need to know their government is stepping in to set boundaries and protect them.”

Feedback collected during the consultations will help guide the Manitoba government as it considers possible legislative or regulatory changes related to artificial intelligence and data privacy.