The order issued by the Lieutenant Governor, with the advice and consent of the Executive Council, pertains to the implementation of amendments to the Social Development and Poverty Reduction Statutes. These changes primarily impact the Employment and Assistance Regulation and the Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Regulation, which aim to improve reporting requirements and improve the application process for income assistance in British Columbia.

Effective May 13, 2024, the definition of “alternate application for income assistance form” will now refer to an “applicable form specified by the minister,” thereby simplifying the application process. The amendments also introduce a new reporting structure under Section 33 of the Employment and Assistance Regulation. Reports will now be required to be submitted monthly by the fifth day of each month, detailing the family unit’s needs for further assistance, changes in assets, all income received and its sources, employment and educational status of recipients, changes in family membership or marital status, and relevant legal warrants. For family units that include a qualifying person, the reporting frequency will change to the fifth day of the following month after any significant changes occur. Each report must also include a signed statement confirming the accuracy of the information provided by each recipient in the family unit. Additionally, Section 79 has been adjusted to clarify how applications and documents should be submitted, allowing the minister to extend submission deadlines under special circumstances. The timeframe for submitting an appeal under Section 84 must now be within 20 business days following notification of a decision, with extensions permitted under special circumstances. Certain outdated sections and requirements have also been repealed to simplify the regulatory framework.

Starting June 1, 2024, new language will be introduced in Sections 7 and 6, specifying that applicants or recipients must be “ordinarily resident in British Columbia.” The revisions will also clarify the reporting processes for earned and unearned income, particularly in Section 29 of the Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Regulation. Furthermore, the language regarding the duration of absences from the family unit will be updated to allow for “30 consecutive days” instead of a total of 30 days in a year, making the regulations more accommodating. Similar adjustments made in May will continue to refine the application forms and processes, improving accessibility for individuals seeking assistance.

These amendments stem from the Social Development and Poverty Reduction Statutes Amendment Act, which grants the Lieutenant Governor the authority to implement these changes. The order specifies that the Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and the Presiding Member of the Executive Council will oversee the execution of these amendments.

By introducing clearer reporting requirements, improving the application process, and ensuring that all participants are adequately informed about their responsibilities and rights, the government aims to support vulnerable populations more effectively. These changes reflect a commitment to reducing poverty and promoting social development through practical legislative updates.

British Columbia (OIC 244/2024) May 10, 2024