VICTORIA, B.C.: The Veterans and First Responders Act, introduced by Rosalyn Bird, MLA for Prince George-Valemount and Caucus Whip, has received Royal Assent and come into effect. The Act, which received unanimous consent at every stage of the legislative process, declares the month of November to be Veterans and First Responders Month throughout the province of British Columbia.

“This is an important milestone,” said Bird. “The courageous men and women who have served and continue to serve British Columbians as members of the Canadian Armed Forces, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, search and rescue personnel, emergency dispatchers, and other emergency service workers deserve to be recognized.”

The month of November was chosen for this commemoration, as it is already a significant time for remembrance and reflection, with Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8 and Remembrance Day on November 11. Veterans and First Responders Month will provide British Columbians with an opportunity to learn more about the vital role of veterans and first responders and the sacrifices that they have made.

“Veterans and first responders face tremendous challenges both during and after their careers, including harms to both physical and mental health,” said Bird. “I hope that this November, all British Columbians can join me in honouring and showing support for veterans and first responders. They have always been there when we need them most, and now it is time for us to be there for them.”

This is the fourth private member’s bill from the B.C. Conservative Caucus to receive royal assent, adding to the record of the most effective opposition caucus in B.C. history.

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