Ever wonder why your streaming bills keep going up? If your first thought is something along the lines of “greedy corporations”, you may be missing something.
Parliamentary records show that the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has spent more than $15 million so far implementing the federal Online Streaming Act (Bill C-11).
Of that amount, $11.9 million went toward salaries and $3.3 million covered operational costs. Roughly $9 million was spent in the 2024-25 fiscal year alone. Looking ahead, the regulator estimates it will require about $9.7 million annually to sustain the program.
To cover these costs, the CRTC has invoiced streaming services $19.9 million for 2024-25, with collections projected to rise to $22.9 million in 2025-26. The Commission confirmed these revenues will be used to fund the regulatory system itself rather than directly supporting Canadian creators. Currently, 59 full-time employees are assigned to enforcing the law.
How do streaming services cover those additional costs? Have a look at your streaming bills from 2022 and compare it to today!
Bill C-11 expands the CRTC’s authority over online streaming platforms, requiring them to promote Canadian content and comply with new reporting and funding rules. Supporters argue this will ensure Canadian voices remain visible in an increasingly global digital marketplace.
Critics, however, warn the framework gives regulators significant influence over what content viewers see, while imposing compliance costs that could affect platform investment and consumer prices. Some legal experts have questioned whether the law addresses broadcasting challenges effectively, or whether it risks unintended consequences for free expression online.
