Opposition to Bill 12

I am writing with deep concern regarding Bill 12, the Financial Statutes Amendment Act, 2025, recently introduced by the Government of Alberta. This legislation restructures disability supports by automatically transferring current AISH recipients into the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), requiring them to reapply for AISH to retain higher benefits.

The result is clear: More than 79000 thousand of Albertans with disabilities and their families will face cuts of up to 10% in their monthly supports. At a time when the cost of living continues to rise, this bill erodes dignity, deepens poverty, and places additional burdens on those already living with significant challenges.

Claresholm is a community built on compassion, resilience, and care for one another. We know the importance of standing together, especially when vulnerable neighbours are at risk. Bill 12 undermines the values we hold dear by shifting responsibility away from government and onto those least able to bear it.

I urge our local leaders, my fellow citizens, and readers to:

• Speak out against Bill 12 by contacting your MLA and voicing opposition.

• Support disability advocacy groups working tirelessly to defend AISH and protect vulnerable Albertans.

• Join in community solidarity through petitions, public forums, and letters such as this one.

Our town has always prided itself on being a place where everyone belongs. Let us ensure that Claresholm’s voice is heard in defense of dignity, justice, and compassion. Together, we can call on the Alberta government to reverse course and protect the rights of people with disabilities.

#StopBill12 #ProtectAISH #AlbertaStrong #DisabilityJustice InclusionAlberta

Also, surprisingly enough, this same Bill also shields AIMCo (Alberta Investment Management Corp.) from lawsuits over past pension losses. AIMCo is government-owned, not a private firm.

• It lost $2 billion in 2020 due to risky trading.

• Pension plans are trying to recover $1.3 billion, but Bill 12 would block them.

• This means workers and retirees bear the losses, while AIMCo avoids accountability.

Bill 12 isn’t just about disability supports, it’s also about protecting a Crown corporation from accountability while vulnerable Albertans are asked to sacrifice!