Alberta Bill of Rights changes to tackle vaccines, gun ownership, property rights

Danielle Smith’s post on social media on Tuesday.

Premier Danielle Smith announced that the UCP will table changes to the Alberta Bill of Rights in the fall session of the Legislature in November that will act as a “reaffirmation” of values. 

Smith’s post on social media on Tuesday says they will target three areas: bodily autonomy on vaccinations, property rights, and defending the rights of gun owners.

“The Bill of Rights has served its purpose well over the years, but as our society evolves, so too must our laws to ensure our rights and freedoms remain properly protected in an ever changing world,” she said.

Smith used this language in the video to describe the changes.

• “Every individual in our province who has the mental capacity to do so, will have the right to decide whether or not to receive a vaccination or other medical procedure.
• “The amendments will ensure that no Albertan can be deprived of their property without due process of law and just compensation. 
• “There will also be an amendment to make clear that in Alberta, we respect the right of individuals to legally acquire, keep and safely use firearms.” 

There is a steep local connection to these changes, as the UCP Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul constituency association, along with legal voices, have worked in the background at tabling new language and updates at the upcoming annual general meeting in November.

If these changes were to pass, how they impact federal legislation is unclear.

“They are a reaffirmation of the values that make Alberta one of the freest jurisdictions on Earth,” said Smith.

“They are about protecting our rights, our freedoms and our way of life. We are sending a clear message that in Alberta, the rights of individuals are paramount, and that government must respect those rights at every turn.”