Alberta Record

· Bill / Election Rules Amendment · enacted

Bill 54 — Election Act: Repeal of Election Survey Regulations and Restrictions on Special Ballot Access

Repeals sections regulating election surveys and significantly alters the eligibility and procedures for Special Ballots, including earlier deadlines and restrictions on who can apply on behalf of an elector.

Moderate impactElection rulesCensorship & access to informationCivil libertiesThe public, directly

What changed

  • Sections 135.1 to 135.4 of the Election Act, which regulated election surveys (e.g., disclosure of sponsor, methodology), are repealed. (Section 6(40) of Bill 54)
  • The deadline for receiving sealed outer envelopes for Special Ballots is changed from the close of voting on election day to 5:00 p.m. on the Friday immediately preceding election day. (Section 6(34)(d) of Bill 54, amending Election Act s. 118)
  • Restrictions are placed on who can collect and deliver sealed outer envelopes for Special Ballots, generally limiting it to mail delivery unless the CEO permits courier or personal delivery for specific districts. (Section 6(34)(d) of Bill 54, amending Election Act s. 118)
  • A new provision restricts applying for a Special Ballot on behalf of an elector to cases of disability or illness. (Section 6(34)(c) of Bill 54, adding Election Act s. 116(2.01))

Why it matters

  • The repeal of election survey regulations removes transparency requirements for public opinion polling during election periods.
  • Earlier deadlines and restrictions on Special Ballot delivery could disenfranchise some voters, particularly those with mobility challenges or who are away from their electoral division.
  • The changes to Special Ballot access may impact the ability of certain groups to vote, potentially reducing overall voter participation.

Rights affected

  • Freedom of expression — The freedom to speak, publish, and access ideas.
  • Access to information — The ability to see public records and government decisions.
  • Voting & democratic participation — The mechanics and integrity of elections and referenda.

Other governance concerns

  • Access to voting
  • Transparency of election information
  • Freedom of expression (polling)

Primary sources (1)