British Columbia.

• Author: Stickle, Katey
• Position: Legislative Reports

Observance of Day of Mourning for Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

On Monday, September 19, 2022, Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin and Premier John Horgan took part in a ceremonial procession for Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The procession began on the grounds of the Legislative Precinct and ended at Victoria's Christ Church Cathedral where a commemorative service was attended by several Members of the Legislative Assembly, including Speaker Raj Chouhan, and other dignitaries. Following consultation with the Legislative Assembly Management Committee, the day was treated as a holiday for all employer-employee groups within the Legislative Assembly as a sign of respect for the late Sovereign and in alignment with the decision made by the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia to observe a national day of mourning.

During the official mourning period for Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a book of condolences was available to be signed in the Hall of Honour in the Parliament Buildings.

Fall Sitting Period

The House is expected to resume on October 3, 2022 for a six-week fall sitting period. The Sessional Order adopted on February 8,2022 enabling the continuation of hybrid proceedings remains in effect.

Party Standings

As noted in the previous issue, BC Liberal Party Member Stephanie Cadieux resigned her Surrey South seat on April 28 to take on a new role as Canada's first Chief Accessibility Officer. BC Liberal candidate Elenore Sturko was elected in the subsequent by-election held on September 10, 2022. Ms. Sturko is expected to be sworn in as a Member on October 3, 2022.

On August 18,2022, John Rustad was removed from the BC Liberal Caucus by Kevin Falcon, Leader of the Official Opposition. Mr. Rustad is currently sitting as an Independent Member.

As of October 3, 2022, current party standings in British Columbia are 57 BC NDP, 27 BC Liberal Party, 2 BC Green Party and 1 Independent.

BC NDP Leadership

On June 28, 2022, Premier Horgan announced that he will step down as Premier following the selection of a new leader of the BC NDP. In a statement, the Premier referenced the recent cancer treatments he underwent and noted that he is unsure his energy levels will be sufficient to continue in the role. He also stated his intention to continue as the Member for Langford-Juan de Fuca until the next provincial general election.

On July 16, 2022, the BC NDP announced details of the leadership election process...