Confusing claims about the online streaming law abound. How does it really work?

Confusion over Canada's Online Streaming Act is running rampant on social media, clouding debate over what the legislation actually does. Here are some key things to know about the controversial legislation.

Confusion over Canada's Online Streaming Act is running rampant on social media, clouding debate over what the legislation actually does.

Billionaire Elon Musk, podcaster Joe Rogan and other commentators have been sharing dubious interpretations of the law to their millions of combined followers.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has repeatedly called it a "censorship law" and promised to revoke it should he become prime minister.

The fact that many of the details are still to come through regulations and ongoing consultations is also prompting questions and fuelling debate.

Here are some key things to know about the controversial legislation. 

The Online Streaming Act, formerly known in Parliament as Bill C-11, is the Liberal government's second attempt to bring major online streaming services into Canada's broadcasting system, and eventually have them contribute to supporting local music and stories. 

A first version, introduced in 2020, did not pass before the 2021 election.