Article content

Independent MLA Deborah Drever is trying to accomplish the rare feat of passing a private member’s bill and in the process make it easier for victims of domestic violence to flee abuse.

Drever’s Bill 204 would amend the Residential Tenancies Act to allow domestic violence victims to break a lease early and without penalty. If a person can demonstrate they or their children are in danger, they can receive a signed certificate from a list of professionals — such as a judge, nurse, police officer or social worker — compelling the landlord to terminate the lease. The law would also effectively allow a victim to remove an abuser’s name from a lease.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Proposed Alberta bill would remove barriers for those fleeing domestic violence Back to video

Drever said that while she knows it can be difficult to pass a private member’s bill — especially as an Independent MLA without caucus resources — she is optimistic she will receive support.

“What benefits this bill is that it really is aligned with the NDP’s platform,” she said. “They really are trying to take action to end violence against women.”