While the deputies of the National Assembly of Quebec have adjourned their parliamentary work for the summer season, the Union of Municipalities of Quebec is taking stock of the last parliamentary session.
The UMQ highlights several significant gains obtained during this session, notably the adoption of several important bills for Quebec municipalities.
Bill No. 31 on housing : This bill grants new powers to municipalities in matters of urban planning, allowing them to quickly approve special residential projects. This progress will help meet housing needs more efficiently and quickly.
Bill No. 41 on the environmental performance of buildings : By highlighting the innovative and proactive role of municipalities in the environmental performance of buildings, this law highlights the importance of respecting municipal regulatory powers. Municipalities will thus be able to continue to demonstrate their leadership in the fight and adaptation to climate change.
Bill No. 48 on road safety : The obligation to design school zones safely and reduce the speed limit to 30 km/h is a significant step forward for the safety of children. This bill also allows municipalities to set different speed limits adapted to local contexts. The bill also opens the door to the use of photo radar by municipalities.
Bill No. 50 on civil security: This bill proposes new measures allowing municipalities to act more quickly during disasters. In particular, it provides for the recognition of local municipalities as being primarily responsible for civil security in their territories.
Bill No. 57 on the protection of municipal elected officials : The adoption of this bill represents major progress for the health of municipal democracy. By better protecting municipal officials, we are creating favorable conditions so that they can continue to serve their communities.
“ During this parliamentary session, the UMQ constantly put forward the interests of local governments. By joining together, we will continue to advance and prepare the ground for the challenges and opportunities ahead. », concluded Mr. Martin Damphoussepresident of the UMQ and mayor of Varennes.
Over the coming weeks, the Union will closely monitor the renewal of the Gas Tax program and the Quebec contribution (TECQ). During the 2024 Conference, the Prime Minister announced that the program would be renewed very soon, with an indexation of the amounts and without municipalities having any additional accountability.
In addition, the Union will continue its work on certain key issues for municipalities, notably on bill no. 61 Mobilité infra Québec, bill no. 69 on energy and bill no. 63 for a harmonious development of mining activities.
