Syilx Territory, Kelowna, B.C. – The Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB) is pleased to see that BILL M 216 – 2025: the Professional Reliance Act will be pulled. A statement issued by Housing and Municipal Affairs this afternoon states that MLA George Anderson, the sponsor of the bill, has requested that the Select Standing Committee on Private Bills and Private Member’s Bills not continue consideration of M 216. 

“I want to thank Premier David Eby, Minister Christine Boyle and the Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities, Brittny Anderson, for meeting with local governments, and the OBWB, and hearing our concerns,” said OBWB Chair Blair Ireland. “Proper consultation in advance of significant proposed legislative changes is essential, and those changes cannot come at the expense of the health and safety of our watersheds, or our communities.”

The OBWB joined local governments and the Union of BC Municipalities in sounding the alarm in November 2025.

As it was written, Bill M 216 would have mandated local governments accept professional submissions without question. This would have removed the ability of municipal engineers, planners, and water experts to seek clarification, require additional data, or send reports for independent peer review — all of which are essential safeguards. This is especially true when reviewing complex or high-risk proposals: water treatment plants, septic systems in sensitive habitats, slope-side developments near fish-bearing streams, etc. The OBWB argued that these checks were not bureaucratic delays, but due diligence measures that prevent environmental harm, protect drinking water, and reduce long-term public costs.

In her issued statement, Minister Boyle said the Province is committed to undertake further work on the bill’s core principles.

“In recognition of the local governments, organizations and individuals that took countless hours to provide written submissions to the committee, the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs will be engaging with stakeholders to see how we can continue to reduce permitting timelines for new housing projects,” stated Minister Boyle.

The OBWB is relieved to hear that formal consultation will occur as the Province looks at ways to streamline housing approvals. We will continue to monitor the Province’s work to reduce permitting timelines and the proposed changes to do so. Any reforms to professional reliance must strengthen — not weaken — watershed security.

Since November, the Select Standing Committee on Private Bills and Private Member’s Bills received significant input on the bill, including 484 submissions, with 88% expressing opposition.