Alberta Government Announces Spring Legislative Agenda with Immigration and MAID Focus
Alberta's United Conservative Party government has outlined an ambitious legislative agenda for the spring sitting of the legislature, with two key pieces of legislation targeting immigration control and medical assistance in dying restrictions. Government House Leader Joseph Schow revealed the plans as MLAs reconvened in Edmonton for the second session of the 31st legislature.
Immigration Legislation to Increase Provincial Control
Schow, who also serves as Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration, confirmed he will introduce legislation that would grant Alberta greater authority over immigration processes if passed. "This legislation is important now, particularly as we begin to regulate recruiters and immigration consultants, creating a licensing process," Schow explained. "This will allow us to ensure that it's a fair, transparent process."
The proposed legislation would establish licensing requirements for international recruiters and increase oversight for employers participating in recruiting and hiring foreign workers. This initiative aligns with referendum questions announced by Premier Danielle Smith that would give the province authority to implement legislation restricting access to provincially-funded social programs.
Medical Assistance in Dying Restrictions Proposed
In addition to immigration reforms, the government plans to introduce legislation that would prohibit medical assistance in dying for specific groups. Schow stated the legislation would ban MAID for "mature minors," individuals with mental health illness or disorder as their sole underlying condition, those making advanced requests, and adults without health care decision capacity.
"Other changes will increase oversight and regulate health care workers involved in referring, assessing or performing medical assistance in dying," Schow added. The province sought public input on MAID legislation and policies in fall 2024, noting that while MAID is primarily governed by federal laws, it is provided by individual provinces.
Broader Legislative Agenda and Budget Concerns
The spring sitting is expected to include 17 or 18 bills total, though Schow cautioned this number is subject to change. Additional legislation will address the proposed independent provincial police service, major projects, and reducing bureaucratic red tape.
Alberta will table Budget 2026 on Thursday, with Schow acknowledging the province is in a deficit position. Despite financial challenges, he emphasized the government's commitment to meeting the needs of a growing population while attracting investment and providing jobs and skills training.
The legislative session comes as Premier Smith announced Albertans will vote on nine referendum questions in October, several of which would grant the province authority to implement legislation restricting access to provincially-funded social programs. Schow noted the upcoming immigration legislation and referendum questions are closely connected initiatives.
