Simple Summary
Alberta Bill of Rights
First introduced in 1972 by Premier Peter Lougheed — Alberta's very first Bill. It enshrines the rights of Albertans in provincial law. Every law in Alberta must be interpreted so it does not limit or interfere with these rights.
YOUR RIGHTS
Original rights (1972):
- Liberty, security and property — cannot be taken without due process
- Equality before the law
- Freedom of religion
- Freedom of speech
- Freedom of assembly and association
- Freedom of the press
Added in 2015:
- Protection based on sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression
- Right of parents to make informed decisions about their children's education
Added in 2024:
- Right to refuse medical care, treatment or procedures without consent
- Right to refuse a vaccine
- Right to acquire, keep and use firearms lawfully
- Freedom of expression — including beyond written and spoken word
- Property compensation if Government takes ownership or eliminates all reasonable use
- Rights apply to all Government action — including policies, not just laws
- Courts can now award damages when rights are breached
- Rights are protected even during an emergency
THE LIMITS Government can set reasonable limits on rights — but must justify them. Government can also pass laws that operate outside the Bill of Rights by invoking the notwithstanding clause.