As an Albertan, I feel fortunate to live in a province that values freedom, prosperity, and the protection of individual rights.
Our province’s history and success are rooted in a government that understands its primary role: to protect its citizens, and their property, and guarantee fundamental rights.
These principles emphasize the Alberta Bill of Rights, a foundational document that has safeguarded freedoms for generations. Recognizing the need to adapt to the changing landscape, the Alberta government is proposing amendments to the Bill of Rights that will address pressing issues, ensuring Albertans’ rights remain protected.
A key amendment in the proposed Bill of Rights Amendment Act 2024 would affirm the rights of responsible, law-abiding Albertans to own and use firearms per the law.
Many Camrose residents are responsible firearm owners who rely on their firearms for recreation, hunting, and protection of property. They are increasingly concerned about recent federal restrictions on legal gun ownership, which they feel unfairly target responsible citizens while crime rates rise under lenient federal policies.
The proposed amendment aims to ensure that future provincial governments cannot impose unjust restrictions on lawful firearm ownership, thereby securing the rights of Albertans against federal overreach.
For rural communities, where self-reliance is often necessary, this is a significant issue. My constituents have voiced concerns about feeling vulnerable and overlooked by the federal government.
Their concerns have inspired me to introduce a private member’s motion that would urge the federal government to address the unique challenges of rural crime and to strengthen individuals’ rights to protect themselves and their property. By reaffirming responsible gun ownership as a valued and respected part of life in Alberta, we send a clear message: we oppose unnecessary restrictions on law-abiding citizens.
Another vital component of the proposed amendments strengthens property rights, a cornerstone of freedom and economic stability. Strong property rights ensure that Albertans can acquire, develop, and retain their property without fear of unjust government interference.
This protection is especially important for farmers, small business owners, and community members in Camrose who have built their livelihoods through hard work and personal investment.
The amendments would require fair and reasonable compensation if the government needs to use private property for public purposes, like constructing infrastructure. This measure promotes confidence that investments will be respected, fostering economic growth and stability across Alberta.
While firearm and property rights are priorities for my constituents, the proposed amendments address other critical areas too. For instance, they would reinforce individuals’ rights to make their own medical decisions, adding protections for those who have the capacity to refuse medical treatment unless they pose a risk to themselves or others.
This provision is fundamental to personal autonomy and aligns with the broader goal of respecting individual freedoms.
Moreover, the amendments will expand the scope of the Alberta Bill of Rights beyond just statutes and regulations, to include all provincial government actions. This change makes the Bill of Rights a more robust document, ensuring that any government action impacting Albertans is subject to the principles of fairness and justice outlined within it.
These amendments are more than just logical—they’re practical protections for rights that Albertans hold dear.
They affirm our commitment to upholding freedoms that define Alberta: the right to make one’s own medical decisions, to own property, and to responsibly bear arms.
By reinforcing these rights, Alberta’s government stands resolute in preserving the values and freedoms that make our province a remarkable place to live, work, and thrive.
- MLA Jackie Lovely can be contacted at her constituency office located at #104, 4870 51 Street, Camrose AB, T4V 1S1, or by telephone at 780-672-0000.
