The County of Stettler Agricultural Services Board (ASB) is seeking more information about Alberta’s proposed Bill 22, the Animal Protection Amendment Act, 2026, following discussion at its June 17 Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) meeting.

The legislation would expand the definition of animal distress, increase penalties for offences and broaden inspection and enforcement powers for agencies involved in animal welfare investigations. It would also place clearer legal responsibility on animal owners and caregivers.

While the bill continues to recognize reasonable and generally accepted agricultural practices, ASB members expressed concern that proposed changes related to care standards, housing, transportation, space requirements and animal behaviour could create uncertainty for livestock producers until supporting regulations are finalized.

Board members discussed the potential for inconsistent enforcement if officers involved in animal welfare investigations have limited experience with livestock production systems. Members noted that farming conditions vary significantly between operations and said clear regulatory guidance will be important to avoid misinterpretation of accepted husbandry practices.

The board also discussed the need for greater clarity on how complaints would be assessed and how producers would be engaged before enforcement action is taken. Members agreed further direction from the province will be necessary to ensure accepted agricultural practices are consistently understood and applied.

“I know there has been quite a bit of stress around this and how it would be administered and how it would affect agricultural producers,” noted Robert Klatt, manager of agricultural operations.

Klatt suggested the board consider seeking further clarification and advocacy on Bill 22, including inviting representatives from the SPCA to explain investigation procedures and producer engagement protocols.

He also suggested advocating for stronger agricultural representation within governance or advisory structures connected to animal welfare oversight, along with formal industry input into future regulations.

“There has been some concern over this,” Klatt said.

Coun. Justin Stevens said the discussion was not about seeking greater involvement in investigations or enforcement but rather understanding how the legislation would be implemented.

“To find out what is happening on the rules and regulations, are they drastically increasing the authority and power of a charitable organization to enforce laws that may lack accountability if there is overreach,” Stevens said. “I believe there is value to getting information.”

The board passed a motion to invite a representative from the SPCA to attend a future meeting and provide information on how the proposed legislation and any future regulations could affect local producers.