New Legislation Will Reduce Barriers For People

The province has cleaned up some language in regulations to provide gender-neutral alternatives to terms such as he and she, chairman, and workmen in legislation.

“Words have a powerful effect, whether written or spoken, and all British Columbians deserve to see themselves reflected in B.C.’s programs and services,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development, and Innovation.

“We know that outdated language across government can exclude thousands of people. That’s why we’re taking action to replace these words with diversity, equity and inclusion at the top of our minds.”

The Better Regulations for British Columbians Annual Report was released last week, outlining the government’s progress to improve services for people and businesses.

The Province says it’s part of its commitment to ensure all British Columbians can see themselves reflected in government services, no matter their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or cultural beliefs.

B.C. is the first province in Canada to systematically amend provincial laws to remove outdated gendered and binary language from its regulations.

In addition, the report highlights recent progress to support British Columbians with attainable and affordable housing; safer communities; improved health care; a sustainable, clean, secure and fair economy; continued work toward true and meaningful reconciliation; and fostering innovation across the provincial economy.

The report has been published every year since 2011.

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.