VICTORIA – MLA George Anderson has requested the withdrawal of Bill M216, known as the Professional Reliance Act, a private members' bill that aimed to accelerate housing approvals across British Columbia. The move comes as the bill faced considerable pushback from various stakeholders, including municipalities, unions, and community groups.
The core of Bill M216 proposed a shift towards 'professional reliance', where government or local authorities would be compelled to accept reports from certified professionals as sufficient for development permits, thereby reducing municipal oversight and speeding up the approval process. Critics argued this approach risked public safety and liability issues by curtailing the ability of local governments to scrutinize development proposals.
Anderson stated in a letter to the Select Standing Committee on Private Bills and Private Members’ Bills that while he is withdrawing the bill, the "province's commitment to continue work on the core principles behind Bill M216" remains. He expressed a continued dedication to "reducing unnecessary delay in housing approvals while maintaining strong standards of safety and accountability."
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Municipalities Raise Concerns Over Provincial Overreach
The Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) had previously voiced strong concerns, noting that the bill moved forward without the direct involvement of the Minister responsible for Housing or the public service. UBCM President Cori Ramsay questioned the lack of official government backing for legislation with such significant implications.
Many local government leaders saw the bill as an infringement on their autonomy. Metro Vancouver mayors, for instance, expressed outrage, with some stating that the bill would prevent them from questioning professional reports stamped with official approval. Mayor Victor Cumming highlighted the potential for unchecked development if professional opinions could no longer be independently reviewed by city officials.
Support and Opposition Alignments
While the bill's proponent, MLA George Anderson, argued it was designed to combat the rising costs of housing by reducing delays, opposition coalesced around the perceived erosion of local democracy and accountability. Groups like Strong Towns Nanaimo, an affiliate of a US-based movement, and various affordable housing advocacy groups were among those supporting the bill's intent to streamline development.
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However, this support was met with significant criticism. The BC Greens called for the bill's withdrawal and emphasized the need for genuine, province-wide consultation involving municipalities, professional regulators, and the public.
Legislative Journey and Previous Similar Bills
Bill M216's progression through the legislative stages, including passing second reading with unanimous NDP support, had already generated controversy. An earlier bill, Bill 15 (Infrastructure Projects Act), also drew fire in May 2025 for similar provisions that would allow cabinet to bypass environmental assessments and override local governments, sparking accusations of being "autocratic" and a betrayal of public trust. Infrastructure Minister Ma had previously defended such legislation, claiming it did not alter environmental standards or First Nations' rights, but acknowledged a need for wider consultation.
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The current withdrawal suggests a governmental acknowledgment of the significant opposition and a potential recalibration of how to address housing affordability without alienating local governance structures. Anderson indicated he would continue working with Minister Boyle and other partners to find solutions for housing needs.
