Articles related to provincial and federal legislation that affects local governments.
The provincial government has introduced amendments to the Police Act (Bill 36) that will impact the policing transition process, and broader municipal authority for providing policing and law enforcement services in communities over 5,000 in population. Additional amendments relate specifically to policing in the City of Surrey.
The Province has introduced legislation that will support local government regulation of short-term rentals, increase allowable fines, and establish a provincial registry and enforcement unit. Key elements of the legislation supporting local government regulation respond directly to recommendations made in a 2021 Joint UBCM-Province Advisory Group report.
The provincial government has introduced legislation to regulate the use of illicit drugs in public areas. The legislation responds to concerns raised by BC local governments at the 2023 UBCM convention and throughout the decriminalization pilot from its inception.
With the new provincial legislation, a person may not consume illegal substances:
Yesterday, the Province introduced new emergency management legislation: the Emergency and Disaster Management Act. Once brought into force, it will replace the current Emergency Program Act. UBCM has previously summarized some of the key changes that will impact local governments.
The BC government has announced amendments to its decriminalization policy. As of Monday, September 18, the possession of illicit drugs within 15 metres of any play structure in a playground, a spray or wading pool, or a skate park will be prohibited. The Province also advised they are planning to introduce provincial legislation to further regulate public drug use in Fall 2023.
Local governments who wish to provide feedback to the Province on potential provincial legislation to regulate the use of drugs in public spaces must submit comments by July 31. Download then email the written feedback form to Ministry staff. If possible, please send a copy of your comments in the form to UBCM staff.
The provincial government is expected to table new emergency management legislation this fall. In anticipation of the pending legislation, the BC Association of Emergency Managers and BC Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness are hosting a series of webinars open to local government representatives.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) revised its timeline for the introduction of new emergency management legislation from spring 2023 to fall 2023. In the meantime, the Ministry will use the remaining time to discuss the legislation with communities.
On the day before UBCM’s Housing Summit, the Province announced its new strategy for housing, Homes for People, an ambitious plan with wide-ranging elements that will have significant implications for local governments across B.C. UBCM will continue to push the Province for meaningful engagement with local governments, not just in legislative development, but also in subsequent stages of implementation.