Big tech companies that offer online streaming services could soon be required to contribute to Canadian content as a controversial Liberal bill gets one step closer to becoming law.
The Online Streaming Act, introduced Wednesday, would force web firms to offer a set amount of Canadian content and invest heavily in Canada's cultural industries, including film, television and music.
Online platforms like Netflix and Spotify may end up spending more than $800 million on Canadian content over the next three years under a series of policy changes the federal government has proposed.
Canadian Heritage Minister Mélanie Joly has delivered a stern warning to internet giants such as Google, Apple, Facebook and Amazon, that the federal government is planning a crackdown.
Rogers said in a statement on Monday it is evolving its Canadian content strategy and will redirect future funding to initiatives that "better align" with its portfolio and brands.