Alberta Government Fights Ottawa’s Gun Buyback Program Now

UPDATE: Alberta’s provincial government has just unveiled a robust plan to resist Ottawa’s controversial firearm buyback program, labeling it an unconstitutional attack on the rights of Albertans. The policy, announced in an order paper earlier today, asserts that firearm ownership falls under provincial jurisdiction, emphasizing the Alberta Bill of Rights as a foundation for its stance.

The motion details Alberta’s commitment to “use all legal means necessary” to actively oppose the federal initiative, which includes a voluntary buyback program for over 2,500 banned assault-style firearms. Premier Danielle Smith has declared this federal program a violation of Albertans’ rights, stating it will “unjustifiably interfere” with law-abiding citizens and could cause harm to the community.

In a bold move, the proposed legislation aims to ensure that neither the provincial government nor any local entities will facilitate the enforcement of this federal policy. Smith, addressing the United Conservative Party’s annual convention over the weekend, vowed to table a motion that could prevent prosecutions under the federal rules, asserting that Alberta residents should not face legal action for protecting their homes and families.

The motion is part of Smith’s broader Alberta Sovereignty Within A United Canada Act, which is designed to empower Alberta to bypass federal laws. Justice Minister Mickey Amery, who presented the motion, is expected to share further details at a news conference scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.

Key provisions of Alberta’s resistance plan include a directive to the Attorney General to regularly review prosecution directives concerning firearm possession. The motion also mandates that Mike Ellis, the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services, take steps to prevent any police force from cooperating with the federal buyback program.

The federal government introduced this buyback initiative to compensate individuals and businesses for surrendering their banned firearms, with an amnesty period running until October 30, 2026. Failure to comply by disposing of or deactivating these weapons could result in charges for illegal possession.

As tensions rise between the Alberta government and Ottawa, the implications of this conflict are significant. Residents and local gun owners are closely watching this developing situation, with many expressing concerns about their rights and the potential impact of federal regulations on their lives.

Authorities report that this motion reflects a growing sentiment among Albertans who feel the federal government is overreaching. The debate is intensifying as rural communities prepare for upcoming byelections, where the stance on gun rights may heavily influence voter sentiment.

As developments unfold, all eyes will be on Alberta’s legislature to see if the motion can gain traction and how the federal government will respond to this declaration of resistance. The fight over firearm regulations in Canada is far from over, and the stakes are high for both sides.

Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.