The Province of British Columbia has formally extended the provincial state of emergency for another two weeks.
The extension allows health and emergency management officials to continue to use extraordinary powers under the Emergency Program Act (EPA) to support the Province's COVID-19 pandemic response.
Already in its longest state of emergency to date, the extension will continue until at least March 30. At this time, the Province will consider the recommendations of B.C.'s health and emergency management officials on whether to extend it again.
This week, the Province marks a year since Dr. Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer (PHO), declared a public health emergency in response to COVID-19.
The original declaration was made on March 18, 2020, the day after Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, declared a public health emergency.
“British Columbians have been living with the challenges of COVID-19 for more than a year, and while our lives have changed, our resolve has not,” said Premier John Horgan.
“This is a sobering occasion, but with vaccinations ongoing in B.C., it’s also one for hope and optimism. Let’s continue to follow public health orders and advice to ensure we can be healthy and safe as we look forward to better days ahead.”
COVID-19 Related Measures Act
The Province continues to use, with the support of police and other enforcement officials, measures under the EPA to limit the spread of COVID-19, including issuing tickets for owners, operators and event organizers who host an event or gathering contravening the PHO’s orders.
On July 10, 2020, the COVID-19 Related Measures Act came into force, enabling provisions created for citizens and businesses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to continue as needed should the provincial state of emergency end.
