BC NDPs contentious fast-track legislation passes in tight vote [Video]

The BC NDP government’s contentious bill to fast-track infrastructure projects has passed despite concerted opposition.

Bill 15, the Infrastructure Projects Act, would allow the province to speed up major projects deemed of provincial importance by overriding certain permit and regulatory requirements.

On Wednesday evening, the legislation narrowly passed in the Legislature with a 47-46 vote.

The tie was broken by speaker Raj Chouhan.

The bill has been met with major pushback by First Nations and municipalities, who argue it will allow the province to steamroll local decision-making and dodge Indigenous consultation.

Prior to the vote, Infrastructure Minister Bowinn Ma said the government would press ahead with the legislation, telling reporters on Wednesday it was too important to leave to the fall.

“The urgency for the Infrastructure Projects Act will be clear to any parent who is struggling to enroll their child in the school of their choice close to home, only to find that school is completely bursting,” …