NB Lung Reacts: GNB Votes “No” on Bill 23

NB Lung Reacts to Defeat of Bill 23: The Right to a Healthy Environment

NB Lung is disappointed that Bill 23, An Act Respecting the Right to a Healthy Environment, did not proceed to third reading in the New Brunswick Legislature.

This proposed legislation represented an important step toward recognizing that clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment are fundamental to the health and well-being of all New Brunswickers.

Across Canada, several provinces have recognized environmental rights in law, providing individuals with tools and frameworks to help defend their health and environment. Bill 23 would have brought New Brunswick in line with this evolving standard.

A Missed Opportunity

Bill 23 aimed to establish a legal right to a healthy environment and strengthen the role of the public in environmental decision-making. It would have created clearer expectations for government to protect environmental health, while improving access to information and opportunities for public participation.

While the Bill did not move forward, the level of public engagement surrounding it sends a strong message. MLAs noted that New Brunswickers made their priorities clear through letters, phone calls, and advocacy efforts. Thank you to the hundreds of New Brunswickers who signed our petition and supported our advocacy efforts.

Moving Forward: Health at the Centre

During debate, the Minister of Environment highlighted ongoing work to modernize the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, under direction from the Premier. NB Lung participated in recent consultations on the Clean Air Act and presented to the Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Stewardship. We are encouraged by the Minister’s indication that principles of environmental and health protection are being incorporated into these updates.

While existing laws focus on regulating pollution, proposals like Bill 23 reflect a broader shift toward recognizing environmental protection as essential to human health. These approaches can work together, and strengthening both will be important moving forward.

NB Lung saw positive signals in the proposed amendments to the Clean Air Act and we plan to continue supporting MLAs in crafting better legislation to help protect New Brunswickers. For the 1 in 5 New Brunswickers living with lung disease, clean air is essential. Air pollution can worsen asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions, and contributes to preventable deaths across our province. Policies that reduce exposure and improve air quality are critical to protecting public health. 

While Bill 23 did not proceed, the conversation it sparked is far from over.