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By Regan Tate

Premier Kenney to introduce legislation to prevent municipalities from implementing separate public health measures

Mar 1, 2022 | 10:56 AM

Medicine Hat, AB–With the majority of public health restrictions now lifted in Alberta, the UCP government is taking steps it says is aimed at ending the division that has resulted from the COVID 19 pandemic.

Premier Jason Kenney says his government will introduce in the legislature as soon as possible amendments to the Municipal Government Act to remove ability of municipalities to impose their own separate public health restrictions.

Kenney says the proposed amendments will ensure Alberta has one clear policy as we move to returning to normal.

“As we safely move beyond COVID restrictions, we need clarity, consistency and unity. It would be confusing and divisive to have multiple different public health policies, particularly when there is no compelling public health rationale. It is time for us to move forward together.” Jason Kenney, Premier

This proposed change will create clarity and certainty for Albertans when it comes to public health policy after almost two years of changing guidelines. Municipalities have asked the provincial government to take the lead on public health policy many times in the past, and we are confident now is the right time for everyone in the province to follow the same rules to avoid confusion and frustration.” Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affairs

Provincial legislation supersedes any municipal bylaw where they are inconsistent.