Legislative Update – January 2021

Legislative update, from Justin Schmid – CUPE BC

Legislative Session: The two-week legislative session in December passed legislation enabling the BC Recovery Benefit which will provide 3.7 million British Columbians with up to $1000 for eligible families and up to $500 for eligible individuals.

K-12 COVID-19 Response Funding: The first $121.2 million installment of the federal government’s K-12 COVID-19 response funding allowed B.C. school districts to hire 1,868 new staff members.

Chilliwack school board: Two special advisors were appointed by the province to evaluate the Chilliwack school board’s “commitment to a school system that is safe, inclusive and welcoming to all students and staff.” The government has also begun a review of the School Act that could be made to “ensure the actions of elected trustees support safe and inclusive schools for students and staff.”

Child Care Awards of Excellence: British Columbians can nominate early care and learning (ECL) professionals who have gone above and beyond to keep kids safe and learning despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The awards recognize the outstanding achievements of people, organizations and local governments who help families and communities thrive by providing or supporting the delivery of quality child care in B.C. Nomination information can be found here and nominations are being accepted until Feb. 5, 2021.

Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Awards: The Province is seeking nominations to honour individuals and organizations that are strengthening multiculturalism and taking a stand against racism and discrimination throughout B.C. British Columbians can submit nominations for individuals, organizations and youth whose work has enhanced inclusion and cultural diversity, and reduced racism and discrimination in their communities. Nomination information can be found here and nominations close at 5 p.m. Feb. 22, 2021.