Alberta legislature returns with affordability and education on the agenda after referendum
The legislature returns with a slim majority of unofficial referendum results pointing to immigration reform, but no immediate changes.
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The Alberta legislature reconvenes today, just over a week after a referendum in which the province voted overwhelmingly to stay in Canada.
Premier Danielle Smith says she considers the separatism debate settled, and expects separatist leaders in her United Conservative Party to accept the result and "turn the page." The debate riled the province all summer.
Unofficial referendum results show a slim majority of Albertans want immigration reform. Legislative changes on immigration are not expected immediately. The government's focus this fall is affordability and education.
Government House Leader Joseph Schow has promised consumer protection rules for event ticket sales, changes to auto insurance, and stricter guidelines for artificial intelligence data centres. Before the legislature breaks for Christmas, it is expected to pass new provincial laws on municipal bike lanes and illegal garbage dumping, and set standards for school report cards.
Backbencher Shane Getson has resigned as an MLA, citing personal and family reasons.
HighOnCity reported in June that Smith had told UCP supporters she intended to keep Alberta in Canada, and that the referendum would ask voters about immigration, social services and constitutional questions.
The facts
When does the Alberta legislature reconvene?
The Alberta legislature reconvenes on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, just over a week after the province's referendum. The province voted overwhelmingly to stay in Canada in that referendum.
What does Premier Danielle Smith say about the separatism debate?
Premier Danielle Smith considers the separatism debate settled. She expects separatist leaders in the United Conservative Party to accept the refer
