Alberta has introduced legislation that would restrict professional regulatory bodies from disciplining members for off-duty speech and prohibit mandatory diversity training unrelated to job competence.
The Regulated Professions Neutrality Act would apply to more than 200 regulated occupations across the province, including nurses, engineers, psychologists, lawyers, teachers and paramedics, according to documents released by the provincial government.
Jordan Peterson case cited
Premier Danielle Smith said the legislation responds to high-profile cases where professionals faced discipline for personal opinions expressed outside work, specifically referencing disciplinary proceedings against psychologist Jordan Peterson by the College of Psychologists of Ontario.
Peterson was required to complete a professionalism program after making public statements on social media and in interviews unrelated to his clinical practice.
“Professionals should never fear losing their licence or career because of a social media post, an interview, or a personal opinion expressed on their own time,” Smith said.
Smith also pointed to similar cases involving nurses and engineers that revealed a pattern of individuals facing investigations or penalties for off-duty expressive conduct.
Scope of restrictions
The act would prevent regulatory bodies from disciplining professionals for expressive conduct unless specific conditions apply, including threats of physical violence or criminal convictions.
It would also bar mandatory training programs unrelated to competence or ethics, specifically naming diversity, equity and inclusion training.
The legislation establishes neutrality principles prohibiting regulatory bodies from treating individuals differently based on personal views or political beliefs.
Consultation and review
The province conducted a review of professional regulatory bodies in fall 2024, consulting with more than 100 regulated professions.
Mickey Amery, minister of justice and attorney general, said the law provides clear protection for free expression.
“Every Albertan must be able to express their opinions and beliefs freely without fear of losing their job or being punished,” Amery said.
Affected professions
Regulated professions covered under the act span multiple sectors overseen by various government ministries and professional associations.
Health sector professions include physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, psychologists and paramedics.
The list also includes trades such as electricians, plumbers and welders, as well as professionals in finance, real estate, education and legal services.
Court review standards
The legislation creates a consistent standard for courts and internal appeal bodies reviewing decisions related to the act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, or the Alberta Bill of Rights.
The legislation would take effect upon proclamation if passed.
