Status: Bill 26 came into force July 23, 2020
Ministry responsible: Justice and Solicitor General

Overview

Bill 26, the Constitutional Referendum Amendment Act allows referendums to be held on more topics.

Until Bill 26, provincial referendums could only be heard on matters that are related to the Canadian Constitution. Bill 26 makes it possible for referendums to be held on government-led initiatives or matters of public interest before they are implemented – including the recommendations of the Fair Deal Panel.

This gives Alberta voters a direct say on important issues and laws that affect them and the future of our province.

Key changes

Referendums can be held on a number of government-led initiatives or matters of public interest:

  • in conjunction with provincial or municipal elections
  • stand alone
  • by mail-in ballot

Next steps

Bill 26 came into effect upon receiving royal assent on July 23, 2020.

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