Saskatchewan.

AuthorUrsulescu, Stacey

Fall sitting of the fourth session of the twenty-eighth legislature

The fourth session of the twenty-eighth legislature was opened on October 23, 2019 by Russ Mirasty, Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan, who delivered his first Speech from the Throne. During the fall sessional period, 33 public bills were introduced by the government and the opposition introduced two private members' public bills.

The government and opposition found common cause to pass the following three bills through all stages in one sitting day.

Bill No. 185, The Legislative Assembly (Protective Services) Amendment Act, 2019, defines what the legislative precinct encompasses and establishes the Legislative Protective Services. The legislation confirms that the Speaker is responsible for the security of the precinct.

Bill No. 186, The Provincial Emblems and Honours Amendment Act, 2019, grants former members of Executive Council, with the exception of those convicted of certain offences, to be honorary members and entitles them to use 'The Honourable' before the member's name and the initials 'E.C.S.' (Executive Council of Saskatchewan) after their name.

Bill No. 202, The Election Amendment Act, 2019, continues the phased-in modernization of election legislation proposed by the Chief Electoral Officer. This legislation addresses administrative inefficiencies and other housekeeping changes.

Bill No.182, The Tobacco Control Amendment Act, 2019, was passed through all stages over two sitting days. It ensures vaping devices, products, and restrictions on use align with the regulations for tobacco products.

Mr. Mirasty gave royal assent to these four public bills on December 4, 2019.

An additional highlight of the fall sitting was the completion of the high definition (HD) migration project in the Chamber and committee room. Arrangements are being made with cable providers to broadcast proceedings in HD.

Vacancies

As previously reported, two seats became vacant when MLA Warren Steinley and MLA Corey Tochor resigned their seats on September 11, 2019 to seek election federally. Both members were elected as Members of Parliament.

On October 23, 2019, the Board of Internal Economy (BOIE) amended the transition allowance directive to preclude members that are elected as Members of Parliament or appointed to the Senate during the period of transition from receiving a transition allowance.

The composition of the Assembly is now 46 government members and 13 opposition members. The...

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