Email Bulletin Archives

Special Email Bulletin for November 16, 2007

Lobbyists Act heads in a new direction:

    Government responds to nonprofit concerns

On November 14 and 15, the Alberta Legislature began its debate on Bill 1, the Lobbyists Act.

We are delighted to report that House Leader Dave Hancock announced he would be bringing forward an amendment to exempt all charities and nonprofit organizations serving the “public good” (i.e.: not including those constituted to serve management, union, or professional interests).

This is a significant amendment and is consistent with a similar exemption for nonprofits serving the public in Quebec. The amendment goes well beyond the recommendations put forward by the Standing Committee on Government Services in addressing the concerns raised by the sector.

It is clear that MLAs consistently heard from nonprofits from across all areas of the sector, and that our responses went a very long way to shape amendments to Bill 1. Whether you contacted your MLA, signed on to the joint submission, or passed Bill 1 information on to a colleague, thank you for getting involved.

If you communicated your concerns to MLAs and others, we encourage you to follow up and express your support and appreciation for the government’s willingness to listen to nonprofits’ concerns and take the appropriate action to ensure that our sector, and all the individuals and communities we serve, will not be hindered by this new legislation.

The legislation is expected to pass in the next week or two. The Alberta Legislature continues to debate numerous amendments, and the nonprofit exemption has not yet been voted on. CCVO is staying tuned to the Committee of the Whole debates, and will update you next week on its progress.

Visit our website for key points from the transcripts, background on Bill 1 and the sector’s response, and links to government information and webpages. If you have questions or comments, please contact Robyn Crawford at rcrawford@calgarycvo.org or (403) 261-6655.

CCVO

STRONG VOICE . STRONG CONNECTIONS .  POSITIVE CHANGE

www.calgarycvo.org