Affordability, public safety, and the economy are top of mind as politicians returned to the legislature in Victoria today.
The legislature reconvened for the first time in nine months, marking a historic day as the BC Conservative’s take the floor for the first time as the official opposition.
Wendy Cocchia, B.C.’s new lieutenant-governor, opening the first session of B.C.‘s 43rd Parliament with her first speech from the throne.
“We open this first session of British Columbia’s 43rd Parliament at the most consequential time for our province since the Second World War,” said Cocchia. At the heart of her speech was the importance of fighting back against U.S. tariffs and protecting B.C.‘s economy.
“In the face of an unprecedented and unjustified threat to our economy, British Columbians are joining with all Canadians to fight back,” said Coochia. Who doubled down on the position that Canada will not become the 51st state, adding that ‘trust has been broken’ with Canada’s biggest ally.
She spelled out the NDP’s plans to speed up renewable energy project approvals and support emerging industries while also acknowledging setbacks in the forest industry.
The B.C. government plans to unveil two ‘bold’ laws aimed at accelerating the development of energy and critical infrastructure, thereby boosting the province’s economy.
A new budget will also be introduced, prioritizing economic security and prudent financial management to protect essential public services.
In the speech, it was announced that new legislation would be introduced to safeguard British Columbians against credit card fraud and unfair cellphone practices by telecommunications companies.
The Lieutenant-Governor then addressed B.C.‘s troubled health care system. Part of the government’s plan includes shoring up staffing levels by expediting the process for getting credentials for foreign-trained doctors, including those who will come from the United States, according to Cocchia.
While on crime, the province plans to add more police officers and take steps to stop the revolving door of justice.