Necessary tool or ‘power grab?’ B.C. NDP seeks to give itself new powers to fight U.S. threats

The British Columbia Green Party is calling on the NDP government to provide a detailed explanation for its proposal to grant emergency cabinet powers before the Green Party can support the legislation. The NDP currently holds a one-seat majority in the legislature and could pass the bill without Green Party assistance. However, the two parties recently signed a confidence agreement that includes a commitment from the NDP to consult with the Greens on shared initiatives related to the United States Tariffs and Trade Actions.

Interim Green Leader Jeremy Valeriote expressed concerns about the vague wording of the proposed Bill 7, which could potentially allow for sweeping economic decisions to be made without clear limits or transparency. Valeriote emphasized the importance of open decision-making processes and regular reporting to the legislature to ensure accountability.

Bill 7, which was introduced last week, aims to give the B.C. cabinet broad powers to address challenges arising from actions of foreign jurisdictions, particularly in response to threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. The bill includes a sunset clause that would repeal it by May 28, 2027, at the latest. Premier David Eby asserted that the legislation is necessary to respond quickly to changing tariffs and threats from the Trump administration.

Attorney General Niki Sharma defended the bill, stating that the government needs the ability to respond rapidly to protect the economy amidst an emergency situation caused by the United States’ actions. However, Valeriote emphasized that the Greens would closely scrutinize the bill and propose amendments to ensure transparency, accountability, and fair economic outcomes.

The B.C. Conservative Party has criticized the legislation as an undemocratic power grab, expressing concerns about the sweeping powers it would grant to the cabinet. The party’s transportation critic, Harman Bhangu, described the bill as a threat to local municipalities and provincial jurisdictions.

While some analysts have characterized the legislation as political theater, others have acknowledged the need for the government to respond quickly to threats from the United States. However, concerns have been raised about potential government overreach and the need for safeguards to prevent abuse of power.

The issue of government overreach poses a challenge for the Greens, given their confidence agreement with the NDP. The Greens are expected to push for amendments to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the decision-making process. The outcome of this debate will test the influence of the Green Party within the coalition government and determine the extent to which the legislation is amended to address concerns about executive powers.