MONTREAL — Quebec is budgeting over $500,000 to promote and support the French language among new immigrants, especially in the Montreal region. 

Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette issued a statement today saying the funding will support 12 associations that work on the integration of immigrants in developing projects to strengthen their use of French. 

Jolin-Barrette says French skills are essential for immigrants in order to be a part of Quebec society. 

The announcement comes as Quebec's proposed overhaul of its French-language charter is making its way through the legislative process. 

 Bill 96 seeks to unilaterally change the Canadian Constitution and affirm Quebec as a nation, making French its official language. 

It includes 200 amendments that aim to strengthen the status of French, such as more language requirements for businesses and less access to English-language junior colleges.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 3, 2021. 

The Canadian Press