Additional Stories

Read the 28 additional stories from the past year that highlight how we are making life better for British Columbians. These are in addition to the 22 stories you'll find in the Better Regulations for British Columbians Annual Report 2024/25 (PDF, 3.4MB).

On this page

• Growing the Economy
• Reducing Costs for Families
• Strengthening Health Care
• Making Communities Safer
• Modernization and Innovation

Growing the Economy

Streamlined Contaminated Site Remediation Process Accelerates Land Redevelopment

Recent changes to the Environmental Management Act protocols are fast-tracking the remediation of contaminated sites. By reducing the number of low-risk applications, that previously required pre-approval from a director, approved professionals can now handle more applications directly. The updated system cuts administrative delays, speeds up site certification, and accelerates land redevelopment, greatly improving the efficiency of site clean-up efforts and redevelopment.

Streamlining Early Childhood Educator Certification with My ECE Registry

Launched in December 2024, the My ECE Registry digital platform is revolutionizing Early Childhood Educator (ECE) certification. This new tool allows qualified individuals to become certified ECEs quickly and efficiently. By shifting from a paper-based system to a digital one, My ECE Registry streamlines the application process, improves transparency, and reduces wait times. The platform allows 24/7 submissions, real-time status updates, and faster communication, speeding up the certification process. These improvements help quickly bring qualified ECEs into the workforce, addressing staffing needs in child care facilities and ensuring families have access to essential services.

Reducing Costs for Families

Early Resolution Process Supports Families

B.C.'s Early Resolution Process helps families resolve legal matters earlier while easing financial and emotional burdens. Families dealing with Provincial Court family law matters can receive information and tools to develop plans in the best interest of their children, and assistance coming to meaningful resolutions in a way that reduces conflict, ensures safety and is adaptable to their changing needs and circumstances. They receive free services, including early guidance from a trained family justice counsellor, a parenting education course, and, if appropriate, consensual dispute resolution. This process is available in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, New Westminster, Port Coquitlam, Surrey, and Victoria.

Strengthening Health Care

Streamlined Research Approvals Boost Health Innovation

The Province has launched the Research Approvals Processes Project (RAPP), a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and Health Authorities to harmonize and streamline health research approval processes. By standardizing ethics reviews, operational approvals, privacy assessments, data access, and contracts, RAPP reduces duplication and delays, enhancing efficiency in health research. This initiative positions British Columbia as a competitive environment for conducting research, attracting investment, and retaining skilled professionals, leading to improved patient care and economic growth.

Making Communities Safer

Strengthening Road Safety for All

New rules under B.C.’s Motor Vehicle Act, implemented in June 2024, have improved road safety for British Columbians. Drivers must now maintain a minimum passing distance of one metre when overtaking cyclists, increasing to 1.5 metres on roads and highways with speed limits above 50 km/h. Additionally, commercial dump trucks with boxes rising above 4.15 metres must have in-cab warning devices to alert drivers if the box is raised while the vehicle is in motion, preventing infrastructure crashes. Non-compliance with these measures results in fines. These changes enhance safety, support active transportation, and improve accountability in the trucking industry, making B.C.’s roads safer for everyone.

B.C. Launches Canada’s First Family Maintenance Mobile App

In 2024, the BC Family Maintenance Agency (BCFMA) launched Canada’s first family-maintenance mobile app. Designed to streamline child or spousal support payments, the BCFMA My Account app promotes financial stability for families navigating separation or divorce. Users can manage cases, track payments, and communicate with client service representatives via messaging and call-back requests. Additionally, BCFMA introduced an Indigenous services model, led by a dedicated team providing culturally sensitive support. This approach ensures clients feel safe sharing their cultural and personal histories, including the impacts of residential schools. These initiatives simplify access to justice and vital services for families.

Transcriber Credential Streamlines Access and Improving Efficiency

The Province has made the system of transcribing court records more efficient and secure. The Transcription Credential, issued to a court transcriber’s BC Wallet, grants direct access to court audio and materials, ensuring that only authorized professionals can access confidential court content. With approximately 13,000 transcripts produced annually, this update creates a faster, more secure and reliable system for the courts and supports community safety with timely, accurate records.

Vehicle Impoundment Rate Increases for Dangerous Driving

To enhance public safety and deter dangerous driving, the Province updated the Lien on Impounded Motor Vehicle Regulation. The new rates include a 38% increase in flat-rate towing fees, and a 96% increase in storage fees, to $110 and up to $40 per day respectively. These adjustments target unsafe driving behaviors, including impaired driving, excessive speeding, street racing, and driving without a license. The fee increases send a strong message that dangerous driving will not be tolerated on B.C. roads, supporting efforts to reduce road fatalities and injuries while reinforcing the Province's commitment to safer communities.

Speed Limiters Regulations for Heavy Commercial Vehicles

On April 5, 2024, British Columbia implemented amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act, requiring heavy commercial vehicles with a gross-vehicle-weight rating over 11,793 kg and built after 1996 to have speed-limiting devices set to a maximum speed of 105 km/h. This amendment aims to improve road safety by reducing the risk of accidents involving heavy commercial vehicles. By limiting speed, the regulation promotes safer driving conditions and contributes to more efficient travel across the province.

New Regulations Bring Fairness for App-based Workers

On September 3, 2024, B.C. became the first province in Canada to enact new regulations for app-based ride-hail and delivery services workers. New provisions include a specific minimum wage rate for engaged time, WorkSafeBC coverage, notice or compensation for unjust termination, a transportation expense allowance, transparency for payment and pick-up and delivery locations, and a requirement for companies to pay workers 100% of customer tips. The new regulations apply to workers accepting assignments through third-party apps. By addressing the unique challenges of gig work, the rules ensure a fair and safe work environment for B.C. workers.

Modernization and Innovation

New Francophone Child Care Resource and Referral Centre

On September 1, 2024, B.C. launched its first Francophone Child Care Resource and Referral Centre to support francophone families and child care providers. Located in Vancouver, the centre offers services and resources in French, both online and in-person. It helps families by educating them on child care options, assisting with ChildCareBC funding, providing learning opportunities, and offering resources, lending libraries, and community referrals. Child care professionals also have access to mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities. By eliminating language barriers, this initiative enhances access to extended, high-quality, and inclusive child care for French-speaking families throughout B.C.

New Online Pay Transparency Reporting Tool for Employers

A new online Pay Transparency Reporting Tool is helping employers in B.C. meet their reporting requirements under the Pay Transparency Act more efficiently. The tool allows employers to upload anonymous data on employees' gender and pay, generating an automated report; it simplifies the reporting process, raises awareness of gender pay gaps, and supports a fairer, more equitable workplace.

In June 2024, the Province released its first Pay Transparency Report (PDF, 6MB), using data from Statistics Canada and employer reports to highlight the gender pay gap across various sectors and intersectional identities.

Modernized Student Information Management System Enhances Financial Aid Administration

Launched to part-time students in November 2024, the new Student Information Management System (SIMS) is transforming student financial aid delivery in B.C. Replacing outdated systems with faster, interactive features, real-time updates, automated assessments, and enhanced self-service options, SIMS has improved the application experience for part-time students. The new system also reduces the administrative burden for post-secondary institutions and equips StudentAid BC staff with flexible tools to better support policy changes and respond to user needs. The phased rollout approach has been critical to ensuring system stability and supporting broader business transformation needs, allowing teams to learn, adapt, and deliver continuous improvements. With full-time student applications rolling out next, SIMS will continue to drive a more efficient and adaptable approach to StudentAid in B.C.

New Sanitation Standards Improve Worker Health and Safety on Construction Sites

Changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations have improved on-site sanitation and working conditions. Construction sites with 25 or more workers are now required to provide flush toilets and hand-washing facilities. These regulations address health and safety concerns, ensuring cleaner and safer environments for workers. By enhancing sanitation standards, the changes protect the health and well-being of construction workers, maintaining high safety and hygiene standards across job sites throughout the province.

Expansion of Public Interest Disclosure Act Strengthens Accountability in Public Sector

Last year, the Province completed the multi-phase expansion of the Public Interest Disclosure Act (PIDA) to cover the broader public sector, including tribunals, Crown corporations, public education, and post-secondary institutions. As B.C.'s whistleblower legislation, PIDA allows employees to report serious wrongdoing without fear of reprisals, promoting transparency and accountability. The Act ensures fair investigations and requires organizations and the Ombudsperson to report disclosures and investigation results annually. Now, more than 300,000 individuals have access to whistleblower protections, strengthening the integrity and accountability of public sector organizations in B.C.

Mandatory Hunter Reporting Enhances Wildlife Management

To modernize wildlife management and ensure sustainable hunting practices, the Province implemented mandatory reporting for all resident hunters holding licenses for moose or caribou. Hunters are now required to submit detailed reports of their hunting activities, providing critical data for estimating harvest levels and hunting efforts. This timely collection of quality data supports informed decision-making in wildlife stewardship. Additionally, the shift to an online reporting system reduces reliance on paper records, streamlines data collection, and decreases administrative burdens on both hunters and staff. In its first year, the program achieved an over 70% compliance rate, significantly enhancing the data available for effective wildlife management.

Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project Expanded Transportation Options

More people in B.C. gained access to affordable, clean transportation through the expanded Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project. This four-year initiative, which now includes 25 participating communities, allows municipalities to set local regulations, and permit electric kick scooters for commuting, recreation, and transit connections. Safety requirements ensure responsible use and set a minimum operator age of 16 and mandatory helmet rules. Data collected will help determine whether e-scooters should be permanently adopted province-wide. By providing a flexible, emissions-free travel option, the project helped reduce congestion and promote sustainable mobility.

New Mobility Aid Regulations Strengthened Accessibility

People who rely on electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters gained stronger legal protection with new regulations under the Motor Vehicle Act. The changes established clear safety rules, ensuring mobility aid users follow pedestrian traffic laws while using sidewalks and public spaces. Previously unrecognized under the Motor Vehicle Act, these devices now have formal legal status, improving safety and accessibility. Outdated terminology was also updated, reinforcing respect and inclusion. These improvements support greater mobility for seniors and people with disabilities, ensuring safer, more inclusive transportation options across the province.

E-Bike Regulations Expanded Access for Riders

B.C.’s updated e-bike regulations introduced a new “light e-bike” classification, making lower-powered electric bicycles available to riders as young as 14. Light e-bikes, capped at 250W and 25 km/h assisted speed, provide a safer, more accessible transportation option for younger riders and families. The updated regulations align with evolving technology while supporting the adoption of clean, active transportation. Expanding e-bike accessibility encourages sustainable commuting, reduces vehicle dependency, and contributes to B.C.’s clean emissions targets.

Improved Access to Assistance Payments

Clients receiving income and disability assistance submit monthly reports faster and with fewer delays thanks to a new automation system. The reports, which confirm eligibility for benefits, previously required manual review, slowing down processing times. The new system eliminates unnecessary staff intervention, reduces wait times, and ensures timely assistance payments. Since its launch, more than 60,000 reports have been processed, saving 6,000 to 9,000 staff hours, and allowing caseworkers to focus on clients needing direct support.

New Online Register Improves Access to B.C.’s Historic Sites

Visitors and people throughout B.C. can now easily explore the province’s rich history through the BC Register of Historic Places (BCHRP) website. This user-friendly database provides quick access to details about 5,000 historic sites recognized by the Province and local governments. It’s a simple way to connect with local heritage, plan visits, or learn about a community’s past. Local governments also benefit from a more efficient system for managing heritage properties. Since its launch, the BCRHP has attracted over 5,000 unique visitors, reflecting a strong public interest in preserving B.C.’s history.

French-Language Divorce Proceedings Now Accessible in B.C.

Recent legislative amendments allow people to file divorce documents, present evidence, and receive court orders in either of Canada’s two official languages, eliminating the need for private interpreters. French speakers can also now have simultaneous interpretation rather than consecutive interpretation, all of which makes divorce court proceedings more equitable, affordable, and accessible.

First Nations Stop Signs Strengthen Language Revitalization

First Nations communities gained greater recognition of their languages with new amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act. These changes allowed Modern Treaty Nations and the Nisga'a Nation to install stop signs featuring their Indigenous languages alongside or instead of English. This step aligns with B.C.'s commitment to reconciliation and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which affirms the right to revitalize Indigenous languages. By integrating Indigenous languages into public signage, the province supports cultural preservation while reinforcing the visibility of First Nations languages in daily life.

New Child Care Regulation Expanded Support for Indigenous Families

The Early Learning and Child Care Regulation ensures that families, regardless of whether their child care was arranged by the Ministry of Children and Family Development, Indigenous Child and Family Service Agencies, or under Indigenous law, receive the same financial supports. By eliminating disparities in child care funding, the regulation reinforces B.C.'s commitment to making child care more accessible and inclusive while respecting Indigenous jurisdiction over family services.

Strengthening Standards for International Students at Private Institutions

To enhance the educational experience for international students, British Columbia has implemented amendments to the Private Training Act regulations. These changes strengthen program content standards and requirements for private training institutions. The amendments also reduce the regulatory burden on institutions by eliminating the need to report graduate outcomes data and exempting Indigenous institutions from submitting full financial statements during annual re-certification. These measures ensure that international students receive high-quality education while streamlining administrative processes for institutions.

Enhancing Public Participation in Environmental Assessments

The Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) launched the online platform EPIC.engage, making it easier for communities to participate in environmental project reviews which evaluate the potential impacts of major developments on local ecosystems, health, and economies. The platform simplifies public feedback by using maps, diagrams, and plain-language summaries of technical information. Targeted questions helped collect input, ensuring diverse perspectives shaped decision-making. By improving access to information, EPIC.engage strengthens transparency and allows more residents to influence projects affecting their communities.

Amendments Expand Indigenous Authority in Child and Family Services

New amendments to the Adoption Act and the Child, Family and Community Service Act expand Indigenous jurisdiction over child and family services. These changes allow Indigenous governing bodies to enter joint and consent-based decision-making agreements with the provincial government, providing for shared authority over child welfare matters. The amendments also designate the Supreme Court of British Columbia and B.C. Court of Appeal as appellate courts for Indigenous child welfare cases, providing a clearer legal framework. By reinforcing self-determination, these updates help Indigenous communities make decisions that better reflect their cultural values and priorities.

New Regulation Enhances Indigenous Dispute Resolution in Environmental Assessments

Further strengthening its commitment towards reconciliation, B.C. has implemented a new regulation under the Environmental Assessment Act to clarify the role of facilitators in dispute resolution between First Nations and the Province. The regulation enhances transparency and certainty by defining facilitator qualifications, powers, and responsibilities. Improving the effectiveness of dispute resolution in environmental assessments ensures a fairer and more transparent process for all parties involved.