Legislation passed in the fall sitting of the House of Assembly focused on supporting families, businesses and communities during the COVID-19 global pandemic. The sitting was highlighted by Budget 2020: Today. Tomorrow. Together. which eases pressures on families, supports local businesses, and reflects new health care demands.
Key actions in Budget 2020 include:
- $25/day childcare in 2021 that will allow more parents to participate in the workplace and lead to more positive learning experiences for children;
- $30 million for small businesses and community organizations to offset expenses incurred by the pandemic;
- More than $600 million for infrastructure projects that will improve access to services and create new jobs for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians;
- Increased investment in the arts community;
- $2.1 million to advance our goal to welcome more than 2,500 new permanent residents to the province annually by 2022; and,
- Close to $100 million being available to respond to demands for such things a personal protective equipment, testing and mobilizing efforts to support immunization in the event that a COVID-19 vaccine is discovered and is safe for use.
The Provincial Government’s legislative agenda also included:
- Legislation that makes it easier and safer for stakeholders of corporations, co-operatives, and condominium organizations to conduct regular business during any event which prevents large gatherings, including the current COVID-19 pandemic; and,
- New legislation that creates equity in the province’s accommodations industry.
The complete legislative agenda and progress of bills can be viewed online.
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“The COVID-19 global pandemic has touched every family, community and business in our province and jurisdictions around the world. As MHAs, during the fall sitting we came together to discuss and debate legislation that supports the social and economic well-being of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as we collectively face the global pandemic and continue to learn to live with COVID-19. Together, we advanced legislation that contributes to a better quality of life and stronger provincial economy.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“As this session of the House of Assembly comes to a close, I want to thank all of those who have contributed to the process; public service employees, my colleagues and residents who help guide the work of government. As we continue to navigate this global pandemic our government remains committed to supporting a healthy and resilient Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Justice and Public Safety
Minister of Treasury Board Secretariat
Government House Leader
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