Legislation proposed by Chestermere-Rocky View Wildrose MLA Leela Aheer Nov. 30 would give voters the ability to recall elected representatives – though the bill may never be debated in the legislature after being sent to committee.
“If the government chooses not to reset in February, there’s a chance my bill might have a chance,” Aheer said. “If not, it will be prorogued and it will be dead.”
As proposed, Bill 206 – also known as the Recall Act – would enable voters to recall MLAs if 20 per cent of voters in a riding sign an official petition within 60 days. A $5,000 application fee would be required in order to ensure legitimacy.
Applications from paid canvassers would be made illegal, ensuring groups could not finance a recall campaign.
“We are talking all the time about transparency and accountability. If people actually mean that, why not give that extra layer of accountability?” Aheer said. “You put the responsibility back into the hands of the people. I could be just as up for recall as anybody else.
“It helps you to define your role now and how it’s perceived. It’s helpful. Any other job would have a probation (period), any other job you would be up for a review.”
Since introducing the bill, Aheer said the reaction has been “mixed” on social media platforms.
“As many people who loved (the recall legislation) hated it. But I honestly think there is a big movement one way,” she said. “You are accountable for the decisions you make on behalf of your constituents.”
Though her bill may not reach debate, Aheer said recent protests surrounding Bill 6, The Enhanced Protection for Farm and Ranch Workers Act, suggest Albertans would benefit from introduction of similar legislation.
“I would support anybody else who put it through as an MLA,” she said. “I would certainly get behind anybody else who would be interested. They would have my support, no matter what side of the political (spectrum).”
Currently, the only province with recall legislation is British Columbia. However, under that legislation, voters must collect signatures from 40 per cent of eligible voters in the electoral district.
