News Summary

The Alberta government has proposed new legislation aimed at increasing oversight and regulation of employers hiring temporary foreign workers. The bill, introduced by Jobs and Immigration Minister Joseph Schow, will require businesses to register with the province before recruiting foreign nationals through the federal program. This initiative seeks to prioritize Alberta’s labor market needs, particularly in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, and ensure that Albertans have priority access to job opportunities. The legislation also includes measures to license immigration consultants and recruiters to protect foreign workers from exploitation. The regulatory framework is expected to be similar to those in Saskatchewan and British Columbia but will include enhanced investigative powers and penalties. The proposed changes come as part of a broader effort by the Alberta government to address unemployment and manage immigration more effectively.