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File photo of the Alberta legislature building in Edmonton (Lethbridge News Now)

Bill proposed to ‘strengthen democracy’ in Alberta

Apr 19, 2021 | 3:45 PM

EDMONTON – The province has introduced legislation aimed at improving democracy in Alberta.

Bill 68, the Election Statutes Amendment Act would see some changes to the Referendum Act as well as the Education Act.

The Referendum Act allows referendums to be held on government-led initiatives or matters of public interest before they’re implemented – including the recommendations of the Fair Deal Panel.

More on the Fair Deal Panel is available here.

Meanwhile, the Education Act contains eligibility requirements for candidates seeking nominations for francophone regional authority trustees.

If Bill 68 were to pass, it would make it clear that all MLAs, including ministers, can express their opinions during a referendum.

The Election Statutes Amendment Act would also update the Education Act to allow for the expansion of eligibility for trustees in francophone regional school authorities.