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By Liam Verster
Cutting through red tape

Alberta earns A for red tape reduction efforts

Jan 27, 2021 | 11:44 AM

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) has given Alberta an A for its red tape reduction efforts.

Alberta, which earned a B- in 2019, was recognized by CFIB for being ‘most improved province’ in the annual Red Tape Report Card. Prior to that, Alberta had received an F for three years in a row.

“It’s great to see the Alberta government stand out as most improved moving from an F grade just few years ago to joining the A club this year,” says Laura Jones, executive vice-president of CFIB .

“Over a short period of time, the Alberta government has taken significant steps toward regulatory accountability, including releasing its comprehensive measure in November. We encourage the government to build on this work and continue to make red tape reduction a priority, which is more important now than ever as governments plan for economic recovery.”

The initiatives that led to red tape being reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic included allowing liquor to be sold through takeout and delivery; allowing liquor manufacturers to produce hand sanitizers; amending nursing home regulations that allowed nurse practitioners to act as primary care providers; and introducing virtual doctor visits.

The Alberta Government estimates that nine per cent of red tape has been cut since the formation of the Associate Ministry of Red Tape Reduction was formed in June 2019, which has saved Albertans more than $476-million.

However, CFIB estimates that in 2020, the cost for businesses in Alberta to comply with these changes and regulations was about $4.6-billion.

The province says red tape reduction efforts are ongoing, and are being driven by advice from leaders in Alberta’s small business, oil and gas, and tourism and hospitality sectors.

by Liam Verster