The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia is the elected legislative body responsible for making and amending laws for the province of British Columbia, Canada. It follows a democratic parliamentary system, where Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) are elected by the citizens in their respective electoral districts. The assembly is located in the capital city of Victoria, inside the historic British Columbia Parliament Buildings.
The Legislative Assembly is made up of 87 elected MLAs, each representing a specific electoral district. The political party or coalition with the majority of seats forms the government, and its leader becomes the Premier of the province. The leader of the opposition is typically the head of the second-largest party or coalition.
The primary functions of the Legislative Assembly include:
- Passing legislation: MLAs propose, debate, and vote on bills that become laws for the province.
- Budgetary decisions: The assembly reviews and approves the provincial budget, allocating funds for various programs and services.
- Holding the government accountable: MLAs question government officials and scrutinize their actions through parliamentary sessions.
- Representing constituents: MLAs advocate for the interests and concerns of the people they represent in their electoral districts.
Facts
- 🏛️ The Parliamentary Dining Room is open for breakfast and lunch from Monday to Friday, with reservations recommended.
- 🎁 The Parliamentary Gift Shop offers custom-made gifts for the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia.
- 👀 Visitors can observe proceedings from the Public Galleries and Parliamentary Committee meetings.
- ♿ The Parliament Buildings are accessible to individuals in wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers, with elevators available between floors.
- 🅿️ Street parking, pay parking lots, and outdoor bike racks are available near the Parliament Buildings.
- 🔒 Visitors must pass through security screening, and only service animals are allowed inside.
- 🗺️ For more information on Victoria and the Capital Region, visit Destination Greater Victoria.
Visiting the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in Victoria is free. The public is welcome to attend public sessions, observe debates, and witness the democratic process in action without any cost.
The Parliament Buildings in Victoria, British Columbia are open for guided tours from May 22 to September 4, 2023. Tours are free and last about 40 minutes. Visitors can join regularly scheduled guided tours on weekdays or take self-guided tours. On weekends and holidays, visitors must join a guided tour. The schedule for guided tours is posted weekly (see below).
More information: https://www.leg.bc.ca/
