Protecting Students While Getting Legislation Right

As the MLA representing Tumbler Ridge, issues that impact the safety of children and families are deeply personal.

When it comes to keeping students safe at school, the question for me is simple. How could anyone stand against that?

Parents expect that their children will be able to learn in a safe and supportive environment. That is not something that should ever be up for debate.

At the same time, part of my role as an MLA and as a critic is to carefully review legislation and speak to where it can be strengthened or improved. Supporting the intent of a bill does not mean overlooking areas where it may fall short.

Statement in the Legislature

During second reading of Bill 12, the Safe Access to Schools Amendment Act, I spoke to both of these responsibilities.

The intent of the legislation is clear. It aims to create safer spaces around schools and ensure that students, staff, and families are protected from disruption and harm. That is an objective I fully support.

However, legislation must be more than well intentioned. It needs to be clear, effective, and enforceable. It should reflect the realities on the ground and provide confidence to parents, educators, and communities that it will work as intended.

That is why it is important to take the time to review the details, ask questions, and identify where improvements may be needed. This is not about opposing for the sake of opposition. It is about doing the work to ensure legislation is as strong as it can be.

Getting the Balance Right

In the Legislature, I raised the importance of getting that balance right.

We can support the goal of protecting students while still ensuring that the tools being put forward are practical and effective. That includes making sure there is clarity around how the law will be applied and that it does not create unintended consequences.

These are the kinds of conversations that matter. They are how legislation is improved and how better outcomes are achieved.

Moving Forward

At the end of the day, this comes down to trust.

Families need to trust that their children are safe at school. Communities need to trust that legislation is thoughtful and effective. And government needs to be open to feedback that helps strengthen the laws it brings forward.

I will continue to approach legislation in this way. Support what is right, ask questions where needed, and always keep the focus on the people these decisions impact.