BC NDP's Bill-9 Faces Backlash for Eroding Transparency in Government
As Premier David Eby grapples with clarifying his stance on DRIPA this week, the BC New Democrats have moved forward with legislation that opponents claim will significantly weaken the province's freedom of information framework. Bill-9, introduced two months ago under the pretense of modernizing and enhancing the efficiency, clarity, and accountability of the existing Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, is now under intense scrutiny for its potential to reduce public access to government records.
Controversial Provisions in Bill-9
Upon closer examination, Bill-9 includes several measures that critics say will dilute what was once regarded as Canada's premier access to information legislation. The revisions would empower administrators, agency heads, and other senior bureaucrats to narrow, delay, and reject information requests based on subjective criteria largely determined by the officials themselves.
One of the most contentious aspects is a nuisance clause that allows officials to deny applications if "responding to the request would unreasonably interfere with the operations of the government of B.C." This provision has sparked widespread concern among transparency advocates and opposition members.
Strong Opposition from Green MLA Rob Botterell
Green MLA Rob Botterell, who played a key role in developing the original Act under the 1990s NDP government, has been one of the bill's most vocal critics. He accuses the Eby government of using Bill-9 to shift B.C. from "freedom of information to freedom FROM information." Botterell's expertise and historical involvement lend significant weight to his criticisms, as he was part of the public service team that crafted the legislation that earned national acclaim.
Conservative Party Denunciations
After a delay of several weeks, Bill-9 has resurfaced in legislative debates, drawing strong denunciations from the BC Conservatives. Surrey-Panorama MLA Bryan Tepper challenged the government, asking, "Why, in 2026, are we moving backward on transparency?" He suggested that the NDP government is pushing the bill because their policies cannot withstand public scrutiny.
Tepper elaborated, stating that the government does not want the public to see internal memos on issues such as the failed decriminalization of hard drugs, cost overruns on major infrastructure projects like the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain or the North Shore wastewater treatment plant, or deals regarding Indigenous land claims made without public consultation.
Personal Experiences Highlight Access Issues
Skeena MLA Claire Rattee, a member of the Conservative party, shared her struggles in obtaining information under the current legislation. She has repeatedly requested reports from Dr. Daniel Vigo, the government advisor on the toxic drug crisis, mental health, and addictions, but has received no disclosure—not even partial or redacted records.
Rattee emphasized the importance of these documents, noting they are directly tied to government policies affecting communities across the province. Her experience underscores the broader concerns about transparency and accountability in government decision-making processes.
The debate over Bill-9 highlights a growing tension between government efficiency and public transparency, with critics arguing that the proposed changes could set a dangerous precedent for limiting access to vital information in British Columbia.
