Alberta has introduced new legislation aimed at regulating the training and speech of professionals in the province. On Thursday, Premier Danielle Smith and Justice Minister Mickey Amery announced Bill 13, known as the Regulated Professions Neutrality Act. This bill seeks to prevent professional regulatory bodies from requiring diversity training and aims to protect off-duty speech for professionals.

The legislation comes in response to concerns about political policing within professional organizations across Canada. Notable cases include psychologist Jordan Peterson, who faced disciplinary action from the College of Psychologists of Ontario due to complaints about his online presence. Similarly, nurse Amy Hamm was sanctioned by the B.C. College of Nurses and Midwives for her public statements on transgender issues, leading to her dismissal from her job.

In British Columbia, a lawyer was criticized by his law society for highlighting inaccuracies in a mandatory Indigenous training course. While Alberta's professional culture is not as advanced in these matters, the government believes vigilance is necessary. Some professions currently impose obligations related to equity and social justice, while others, like the law society, mandate ideological training.

Under the proposed law, Alberta professionals would no longer be required to undergo training on cultural competency, unconscious bias, or diversity, equity, and inclusion. Some political and social training would still be permitted, but only if it pertains to professional competence and does not dictate acceptable political or historical opinions. The bill also prohibits training that assigns value or blame based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, or other personal characteristics.

The legislation maintains that certain off-duty conduct remains subject to regulation, including violent threats, abuse of professional status, and sexual misconduct. On-duty conduct, such as interactions with clients and colleagues, will still be regulated.

During a news conference, Smith explained that many professionals expressed fear about speaking out on issues, particularly regarding another piece of legislation, Bill 9, which restricts sex changes for minors. "When we worked on Bill 9, we spoke to many professionals who were afraid to put their names in the public realm, not only due to the threat of public cancellation, but mainly due to fear of losing their professional status or their livelihood," she said.

However, the bill may face challenges in regulating professional behavior, particularly concerning inappropriate conduct on social media or personal harassment. Critics may argue that the new rules could protect individuals who should be held accountable for their actions. The legislation raises questions about where the line is drawn between appropriate professional instruction and inappropriate ideological training.

The introduction of Bill 13 reflects a growing concern over the politicization of professional standards and the potential for abuse of power within regulatory bodies. The government aims to ensure that professionals can perform their duties without fear of political repercussions, while also maintaining standards of conduct within their fields.