New Brunswick Regulation 2024-11, filed on March 19, 2024, introduces important amendments to the existing Regulation 95-61 under the Family Income Security Act. These changes are designed to update certain provisions and improve support systems for individuals and families within the province, with the new regulations set to take effect on April 1, 2024.

One key amendment involves the replacement of the term “Working Income Tax Benefit” with “Canada Workers Benefit” in subsection 8(2)(n). This change aligns provincial regulations with updated federal support terminology. Additionally, the English version of subsection 8(2)(q.2) has seen the conjunction “and” removed from the end of the paragraph, suggesting a revision in the list of conditions or benefits. Furthermore, the concluding period of subsection 8(2)(r) has been replaced with a semicolon, indicating that the list of criteria or provisions continues. A new provision, subsection 8(2)(s), introduces the “New Brunswick Workers Benefit,” which aims to provide additional support to eligible workers within the province.

Moreover, Schedule A of the regulation has been repealed and replaced with an updated version that outlines maximum amounts for various assistance programs, crucial for individuals and families who depend on provincial benefits. The revised Schedule A details maximum benefit amounts for two key programs: the Extended Benefits Program and the Transitional Assistance Program. Under the Extended Benefits Program, maximum amounts vary based on household composition, with 1 person receiving $918, 2 persons (at least one under 19 years) receiving $1,240, 2 adults receiving $1,263, and 3 persons receiving $1,305, with an additional $74 for each extra person. The Transitional Assistance Program supports individuals and families facing temporary financial difficulties, offering $660 for 1 employable person, $708 for 1 designated person, $1,035 for 2 persons (at least one under 19 years), $1,054 for 2 adults, and $1,095 for 3 persons, with an additional $69 for each extra person.

The updates in New Brunswick Regulation 2024-11 reflect a commitment to ensuring that provincial assistance programs remain relevant and responsive to the needs of residents. The introduction of the New Brunswick Workers Benefit underscores the province’s dedication to enhancing support for workers, highlighting the importance of financial security in fostering a healthy workforce and community.

By establishing clear guidelines and updated benefit amounts, the regulation aims to foster greater economic stability for families in New Brunswick. These modifications seek to modernize terminology, introduce new benefits, and offer clearer guidance regarding financial assistance programs.

New Brunswick (2024-11) March 19, 2024