The new NDP government's first throne speech signalled new laws to curb political donations, implement universal childcare, reduce poverty, and more, but was short on specifics concerning rural initiatives and natural resource development.



"Starting today, your government will make different choices, choices that put people first," said Lt.-Gov. Judith Guichon, who read the speech on behalf of the government.



"We will listen, deal honestly with the problems facing us today, and bring people together to find solutions."



After addressing the wildfire and opioid crisis that has gripped the province, Guichon outlined legislation and initiatives British Columbians can expect the government to move on this fall:



• campaign finance reform to ban corporate and union donations and limit individual contributions;



• moving the fixed election date to fall 2021 and every four years after;



• setting an electoral reform referendum on proportional representation for no later than November 2018;



• implement lobbying restrictions for former public officer holders;



• a $100 increase to monthly income assistance and disability rates;



• closing fixed-term lease loopholes for renters, while increasing rental, social, and co-op housing stock;



• establishing a Fair Wages Commission to study a $15/hour minimum wage;



• legislating a poverty reduction plan;



• launching public consultations on implementing a provincial universal childcare program;



• eliminating tuition fees for adult basic education and English language learning, and eliminate university tuition for former children in care;



• implementing an annual bus pass for people with disabilities starting Jan. 1;



• reducing and then eliminating Medical Services Premiums;



• creating a new ministry of mental health and addictions;



• establishing an Innovation Commission to encourage technology investment.



While nothing specific was mentioned about Site C, the speech did say it would take "decisive action to fix problems" at Crown corporations, including BC Hydro and ICBC.



The speech did not mention specific initiatives for rural and remote B.C., but noted people in those regions face "higher unemployment and have fewer services" and "deserve the same opportunities as all other British Columbians."

The speech notes the government will encourage investments in forestry, mining, agriculture, and natural gas development, and will support natural resource projects that give the province a "fair rate of return" while protecting the environment and providing First Nations meaningful partnership.



Speaking to reporters following the speech, Horgan said little to expand on initiatives for rural B.C., but was quick to mention his government's support for wildfire recovery effort and softwood lumber.



"Throne speeches are a roadmap for a new government, and we laid out, I believe, a comprehensive plan that we'll following in the months and years ahead," Horgan said.

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Peace River North MLA Dan Davies called Horgan's speech "vague."

"He did say everyone should have full access to the same healthcare, how does that play out for us?" Davies said.

"Many people right now in the Fort St. John hospital can't get rehab. If they do come to Vancouver, it's all out of pocket for the patient. Or, there have been no babies born in Fort Nelson in more than five years. Patients are told to go elsewhere weeks in advance of birth, and it's all out of pocket."

The government will release a budget update on Monday, with a full budget to come in February.

editor@ahnfsj.ca