British Columbia.

• Author: Arril, Jennifer
• Position: Legislative Reports

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Speech from the Throne

The Fifth Session of the 40th Parliament opened on February 9, 2016, with the presentation of the Speech from the Throne by Lieutenant Governor Judith Guichon. The Speech outlined government's plan to diversify the province's economy by the expansion of new Asia-Pacific markets for energy and technology, particularly the export of liquefied natural gas (LNG). During Address in Reply debate, Official Opposition Members expressed concern about the viability of the LNG industry, the adverse impact of government policies on worker safety and the environment, and the need for more actions to address poverty and the high cost of living.

Budget 2016

On February 16, 2016, Finance Minister Michael de Jong, presented the provincial budget for the 201617 fiscal year. The Minister stated that government's fiscal discipline and focus on economic development have resulted in a fourth consecutive balanced budget, while providing funds for targeted investments to help families, and to support vulnerable communities, First Nations and the private sector in creating jobs and opportunities for workers and businesses. In responding to the budget, Official Opposition Finance Critic Carole James called on government to do more to address urgent challenges in the areas of education, training, health care, housing, and the environment.

Legislation

At the time of writing, five of the 21 government bills introduced during the Fifth Session had received royal assent. These include the Budget Measures Implementation Act, 2016 which gives effect to budget initiatives, and the Food and Agricultural Products Classification Act which requires all food and beverage products marketed as "organic" to be certified under a provincial or national certification program by 2018. In addition, the Legislature adopted the Miscellaneous Statutes (Signed Statements) Amendment Act, 2016 which replaces the need for sworn statements with a simple, signed statement where appropriate. This legislation intends to reduce costs, delays and inconvenience for British Columbians by simplifying the law and making it easier to comply with legal requirements. Nineteen private members' bills were also introduced during this spring sitting.

Government Motion

Following two days of debate, on April 14, 2016, the Legislative Assembly adopted, on division, a government motion expressing support for the TransPacific Partnership (TPP) and urging the federal...