New rules and regulations taking effect in Alberta next month
March is just around the corner, and a new season brings new laws, regulations, and other changes to Alberta.
We looked into what’s changing in Alberta next month and what you can expect as a resident.
Flouride is returning to Calgary’s water
The City of Calgary is reintroducing fluoride into its drinking water, following City Council’s direction in late 2021. The commissioning of new equipment at Calgary’s two water treatment plants is underway, with fluoridation expected to begin by the end of March 2025. The City will provide an update on the implementation timeline in early March.
Fluoride will be added as a safe and effective public health measure to prevent tooth decay. It was first introduced in 1991 and maintained until 2011, when City Council discontinued it. The decision to reintroduce fluoride followed a 2021 plebiscite where 62 per cent of voters were in support.
Health Canada, Alberta Health, and Alberta Health Services all support community water fluoridation as an effective tool to improve oral health. The fluoride level will be maintained at 0.7 mg/L, as Health Canada recommends, considering other fluoride sources like toothpaste.
The City says that research shows fluoride is safe at low levels and is a cost-effective way to improve dental health for all, particularly those without access to dental care.
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OHS Code changes
JuiceCo/Shutterstock
Changes are coming into effect for Alberta’s OHS Code in areas including harassment and violence, explosives, and gas and oil wells, as well as miscellaneous administrative adjustments to correct errors and align standards.
Minister of Jobs, Economy, and Trade Matt Jones explained to Daily Hive that the Alberta government aims to ensure all Albertans return home healthy and safe at the end of each workday.
“As workplaces, best practices, standards and technology change, it is important to update the OHS Code to ensure health and safety rules keep pace,” he stated.
“The changes were made following extensive stakeholder engagements from our valued industry and labour partners. The updates received strong support from workers, employers and health and safety professionals.”
Between Dec. 4, 2024, and March 30, 2025, work sites can follow either the old or the updated rules. After March 31, 2025, they will be required to follow the updated rules.
Other things changing in March
Changes to public health and student rules will also take effect on March 1, 2025, in line with the Education Amendment Act, 2024. The changes will impact several sections of the Education Act, including Sections 1 to 5 and 8(a), which will be in force starting that date.
Amendments to the Police Act will also take effect on March 1, 2025, as part of the Police Amendment Act, 2022. This will affect various sections of the Police Act, including Sections 3(e), 7, 8(b) and (c), 16, 19, 45, 46(a), and 47, as well as Section 3(c).