Fall Legislature Sitting Begins

Government will continue its work to protect the programs and services that are most important to Nova Scotians, during the second session of the 62nd general assembly, which resumed today, Nov. 12.

"Our first two years in government have been filled with tough decisions and I am thankful that Nova Scotians recognize tough decisions are necessary to achieve the growth that will lead to things like a healthier and better-educated population," said Premier Stephen McNeil.

"We as a government and we as a province must consciously choose to adopt a new mindset and a new outlook, and I believe the people of Nova Scotia are up to the challenge."

During the fall sitting, government will introduce legislation that will:

• implement improvements to the province's electricity system for the benefit of ratepayers
• update family laws regarding parenting arrangements and expand on how to keep the best interests of children as the top priority when families break up
• enhance protections for employees who make labour standards inquiries or complaints.

Government's fall legislative agenda also includes the following items, listed below, which is subject to change:

• Paramedics Act - enabling self-regulation of profession
• Municipal Elections Act - improving election process
• Labour Standards Code - protection of employees and extension of available unpaid leave
• Interjurisdictional Support Orders Act - ensuring a streamlined process for hearings
• Canada Nova Scotia Petroleum Resource Accord Implementation (N.S.) Act - extending moratorium on Georges Bank
• Securities Act - improving investor information and further harmonizing regulation
• Motor Vehicle Act - enhancing the graduated driver's licensing program and providing clarity and consistency to other sections
• Regulatory Accountability and Reporting Act – improving accountability and quality of regulation. New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island will adopt similar legislation.