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The B.C. government has formally extended the provincial state of emergency through to April 28.

The state of emergency, which was first declared March 18, grants the provincial government sweeping powers under the Emergency Program Act to support the province’s COVID-19 pandemic response.

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“Through this challenging time, British Columbians are leading the way in our efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Premier John Horgan. “We are starting to see the results of our sacrifice, dedication and hard work, and we must continue to be steadfast in our commitment to keep our communities safe – for ourselves, our loved ones and our workers on the front lines.”

The emergency declaration gives Solicitor General Mike Farnworth power to make orders without the legislature, including to “secure the supply chain,” ration supplies, set prices for food and gas, forbid the resale of certain supplies such as medical equipment, procure any other type of goods government deems necessary, enter any building without a warrant and restrict travel throughout the province.

The provincial government can extend the period of a declaration for up to 14 days at a time. During the 2017 wildfire season, the province was in a provincial state of emergency for 10 weeks from July 7 to Sept. 15.

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