Update from the Legislature – November 30, 2022
Session begins
The fourth session of the 20th legislature commenced on November 29 with a Speech from the Throne delivered by Lieutenant Governor Salma Lakhani. The 2,300-word speech covered four areas the government intends to prioritize:
- A series of affordability measures
- Measures to support jobs and the economy
- Improvements to the healthcare system
- Standing up for Alberta’s constitutional rights
Following the Speech from the Throne, Premier Smith introduced Bill 1, the Alberta Sovereignty within a United Canada Act, which the government says is “designed to protect the province against unconstitutional federal measures, policies and legislation.”
If passed, the legislation would “provide authority to the cabinet, when authorized by the legislative assembly under the act, to direct provincial entities to not enforce specific federal laws or policies with provincial resources.” Provincial entities include municipalities and municipal police services. ABmunis is reviewing the legislation to determine the impact it may have on municipalities.
The legislative session is anticipated to be short, with the legislature currently scheduled to rise no later than December 22.
Kenney resigns
Former Premier Jason Kenney resigned his Calgary-Lougheed seat on November 29. Given the proximity to the fixed provincial election date of May 29, 2023, a by-election does not need to be called before the general election.
