Protection of fundamental rights is necessary in a free and democratic society and highly valued by Albertans. The Alberta Bill of Rights was created to enshrine the principles Albertans hold dear: freedom of speech, freedom of religion and the right to equality before the law among other fundamental rights.
The Alberta Bill of Rights has not been significantly updated since it was first introduced in 1972, and society has evolved since then. Proposed amendments would help ensure Albertans can rely on the protection of their rights and freedoms in an ever-changing world.
“Our province was built on the principles of individual freedom and responsibility. By making important changes to the Alberta Bill of Rights, we’re ensuring we continue building on that foundation so Albertans for generations to come can rest assured their rights and freedoms are respected.”
Alberta’s government is introducing amendments that would add new rights for Albertans such as protections for personal autonomy, including the right not to be given medical care or treatment or a vaccine without consent; the right to acquire, keep and use firearms in accordance with the law – affirming government’s intent that provincial laws should not interfere with the right to own legally acquired firearms; and strengthened property rights.
To reinforce Albertans’ shared values, amendments to the preamble would confirm that fundamental freedoms are always important, including during times of emergency, as well as affirming the importance of family and the rule of law in Alberta society.
“The proposed amendments to the Alberta Bill of Rights address issues important to Albertans and reinforce that Alberta’s government is committed to protecting their rights. I am proud to see this bill introduced.”
Additional amendments would make the Alberta Bill of Rights a more robust civil rights document with more effective tools for making sure Albertans’ rights are protected. This would include expanding the Alberta Bill of Rights to apply to all government action, such as policies that are not formalized in a law or regulation, and giving the courts more enforcement options when rights under the Alberta Bill of Rights have been breached.
Several amendments relate to recommendations in the Public Health Emergencies Governance Review Panel final report that dealt with strengthening protection for Albertans’ rights and freedoms. If passed, the updates to the Alberta Bill of Rights would protect and reinforce Albertans’ rights, freedoms and way of life.
Quick facts:
- A complete list of proposed amendments is available in the Alberta Bill of Rights Amendment Act, 2024 fact sheet.
- If passed, proposed amendments would take effect upon royal assent.
Related information
- Protecting Albertans’ rights
- Alberta Bill of Rights Amendment Act, 2024 fact sheet
- Bill 24: Alberta Bill of Rights Amendment Act, 2024
- Public Health Emergencies Governance Review Panel