BC extends provincial state of emergency for another two weeks

Premier John Horgan has announced BC’s state of emergency will be extended for another two weeks.

Making the announcement on Wednesday afternoon, Horgan said the current state of emergency is being extended through the end of the day on June 23, 2020.

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“As we continue to slowly and carefully reopen our economy, British Columbians are starting to see aspects of normal life return. But it’s important to remember that we’re not out of the woods yet,” said Horgan. “There are a lot of people, businesses and communities that continue to need a hand right now, and the extension of this state of emergency helps us do that.”

The province first announced a state of emergency on March 18, and this is the sixth time it has been extended since then.

In declaring the original state of emergency back in March, BC Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth said doing so allows for additional powers, particularly in areas such as critical supply chains, to ensure people have the essential goods, services, and infrastructure.

“Under the provincial state of emergency, our government continues to address the variety of needs throughout British Columbia in response to COVID-19,” Farnworth said. “We’ve been working with communities throughout this crisis, and the provincial state of emergency helps ensure our efforts continue in a mindful and co-ordinated way.”