Bill 1: Disability Advocate Act

The businesses most directly affected are service providers involved in the delivery of health care, personal care, or supported living to persons with disabilities — think home care agencies, group home operators, personal care home operators, and supported living providers working in Newfoundland and Labrador. These organizations can now be the subject of formal investigations, must cooperate with the advocate by producing records and answering questions, and must respond to recommendations within specified timeframes. Government-linked bodies listed in the Schedule — including the Provincial Health Authority, NL Housing Corporation, and Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission — face similar obligations. Obstructing the advocate or refusing to comply with lawful requests is a summary conviction offence carrying fines up to $1,000 and/or up to 3 months imprisonment.