Bill C-244 primarily aims to enhance environmental protection measures by amending two existing laws: the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 and the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act. These amendments seek to better protect marine ecosystems and reduce the risks associated with wrecked, abandoned or hazardous vessels.

The main provisions of the bill include introducing new obligations for vessel owners to prevent abandonment. It also proposes increased penalties for offences related to vessel abandonment and marine pollution. Additionally, the bill provides measures to facilitate the cleanup and removal of wrecks.

The laws amended by this bill are the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 and the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act. These amendments aim to harmonize regulations and address existing gaps in current legislation.

The individuals and entities affected by this bill include vessel owners, maritime authorities, and environmental protection organizations. The proposed changes aim to increase the accountability of vessel owners and strengthen the authorities' ability to manage environmental risks associated with wrecks.