Amendments Create Level Playing Field for Political Donations

Amendments to the Members and Public Employees Disclosure Act, introduced today, Oct. 20, would ensure equity and fairness among parties in the electoral system in Nova Scotia.

The changes would allow only individuals to make political donations, and prohibit the use of held assets for political purposes.

"We are keeping a commitment to improve transparency in the electoral system in Nova Scotia," said Justice Minister Ross Landry. "Government is creating a level playing field so that all political parties are operating under the same set of rules."

Corporations, trade unions and partnerships will no longer be able to make political contributions, effective Jan. 1, 2010. This will give Elections Nova Scotia, recognized political parties and members of the public sufficient time to understand and comply with the new rules.

Other provinces have passed similar limits on who can provide political contributions, including both Manitoba and Ontario.