New Brunswick.

• Author: Del Frate, Alicia R.
• Position: Legislative Reports

Throne Speech

Lieutenant Governor Jocelyne Roy Vienneau opened the 4th Session of the 58th Legislature on October 24, 2017, with the delivery of the Speech from the Throne. The speech outlined the need to grow the economy, strengthen education, and improve health care.

Highlights of the speech included the launch of a population growth strategy; a review of WorkSafe New Brunswick's decisions regarding its funding formula; an agreement with the federal government to make daycares more accessible and affordable; an agreement with public universities to specify government funding and to appear annually before the Legislative Assembly; a partnership with Medavie to integrate Ambulance New Brunswick, the extra-mural service program and tele-care 811; benefits to assist seniors and their caregivers so they can remain independent longer, a social innovation fund to support innovation projects that endeavor to end generational poverty; the expansion of the family division cases management model to stream access to services and expedient resolutions of family law disputes; initiatives to protect against intimate partner violence and improve access to reproductive health services; a broader implementation of pay equity; legislation to freeze MLA salaries until 2021, when it is anticipated New Brunswick will have a balanced budget; legislation to address the legalization of recreational cannabis; and legislation to address carbon pricing and establish a climate change fund.

Reply to Throne Speech

On October 26, Official Opposition Leader Blaine Higgs gave his reply to the Speech from the Throne. Mr. Higgs raised concerns about children's falling literacy rates, increased taxes for small businesses, the space crisis at New Brunswick Community College, business property tax cuts, and missed opportunities in health care and home care models. He also expressed a desire to work with government on legislation to address post-traumatic stress disorder for first responders, alcohol interlock devices, and school zone speed limits.

Capital Budget

The 2018-19 capital budget totals $815.3 million. New investments total $28.1 million while $787.2 million is earmarked for maintenance and the continuation of previously announced projects. Specifically, a record $12.6 million will be invested in upgrading tourism infrastructure; $458.1 million will be allocated for road and bridge construction, their maintenance, and building upgrades; $105.8 million for K-12...