Alberta’s government is taking action to address the needs of vulnerable Albertans struggling with severe addiction and mental health challenges. Work is underway to support the implementation of compassionate intervention legislation, with some beds expected to open next year. As a key part of implementation efforts, Alberta’s government has appointed Jonathan Carlzon as commissioner of the Compassionate Intervention Commission for a three-year term, starting August 11.
Carlzon is a lawyer with more than 23 years of experience in the legal field, including administrative and ethics law, litigation and adjudicative processes, and knowledge of Alberta’s recovery-oriented system of care. He has held various senior roles with the Alberta Court of Appeal, Alberta Health Services and the Government of Alberta, where he currently provides strategic legal advice on legislation, policy and ministry priorities.
“The Compassionate Intervention Act is about helping the most vulnerable Albertans get the support they need to begin their recovery journey. I’m pleased to welcome Jonathan Carlzon as commissioner. His leadership will be crucial in establishing compassionate intervention processes and policies.”
“I am honoured to take on this role and to support Albertans facing severe substance use or addiction challenges. I’m committed to serving with integrity, humility and empathy, and to developing fair and effective processes to guide the commission’s work.”
Since 2019, Alberta’s government has made significant investments to build the Alberta Recovery Model, a comprehensive system of mental health and addiction care. The goal is to help people get their lives back and make our province a better place to call home. As part of this work, Alberta’s government passed the Compassionate Intervention Act this spring to support the health, wellness and recovery of individuals facing severe addiction challenges.
The Compassionate Intervention Act creates a pathway for adult family members, guardians, healthcare professionals, police or peace officers to request treatment for adults or youth who, because of their severe substance use or addiction, are likely to cause harm to themselves or others. It is meant to be a last resort, when other treatment and recovery efforts have been unsuccessful. Eligible individuals will receive stabilization, assessment, treatment and aftercare support.
The Compassionate Intervention Commission is an independent adjudicative body tasked with making decisions under the Compassionate Intervention Act. Responsibilities include reviewing applications and conducting hearings, non-compliance reviews and appeals. Led by the commissioner, members will include lawyers, physicians and members of the public appointed by the lieutenant governor in council. The commission is subject to all the requirements of the Alberta Public Agencies Governance Act.
Key facts:
- The Compassionate Intervention Act was tabled on April 15 and received royal assent on May 15.
- The commissioner also serves as the chair to the Compassionate Intervention Commission.
- The commission and all its members will operate independently from government.
- Members of the commission can be appointed for terms of up to three years.
- Other members of the commission will be recruited over the next year.
- As outlined in the Compassionate Intervention Act, the commission may:
- Dismiss applications for assessment orders.
- Issue and terminate apprehension orders and assessment orders.
- Issue, uphold, amend, renew and terminate care plan orders.
- Dismiss applications for the review of a care plan order.
- Issue discharge orders.
- Grant appeals.
- Grant leaves of absence.
Related information
Related news
- Laying the foundation for compassionate intervention (Feb. 24, 2025)
- Delivering on compassionate intervention (April 15, 2025)
