Work Permit Holders Eligible as Commissioners

Summary#

This bill changes who can be appointed as a “commissioner for taking affidavits” in New Brunswick. A commissioner is a person allowed to witness sworn statements (affidavits) and declarations. The bill adds people on valid work permits, not just citizens or permanent residents, to the list of people who can be appointed.

• Lets eligible work-permit holders who are authorized to work in New Brunswick apply to become commissioners.
• Keeps the same duties and rules for commissioners; only the eligibility to be appointed changes.
• Could increase the number of commissioners available in communities.
• May make it easier to find someone who can witness forms in different languages or on short notice.

What it means for you#

• Residents and families

  • Easier to find someone to witness an affidavit or declaration for court papers, government forms, name changes, real estate, and other needs.
  • You may get faster service and more language options in your area.
  • Usual fees and identification rules still apply.

• Newcomers with work permits

  • If you have a valid work permit that allows you to work in New Brunswick, you can apply to be appointed as a commissioner.
  • This could help you serve your workplace or community (for example, helping clients or coworkers with sworn forms).
  • You must still follow all provincial rules, training, and ethics for commissioners. Appointment is not automatic.

• Businesses, schools, and community groups

  • You may be able to have eligible staff appointed as commissioners to handle frequent affidavits or declarations on site.
  • This can save time for HR, settlement services, and client-facing work.

• Rural and small communities

  • More local people could qualify, which may reduce travel or wait times.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

• Expands access so people can find a commissioner more easily, including in rural areas and in more languages.
• Helps newcomers participate in community life and meet local needs.
• A simple change with little or no new cost, since duties and standards stay the same.
• Could reduce bottlenecks at law offices and government counters for routine sworn documents.
• Aligns eligibility with today’s diverse workforce while keeping the same rules and oversight.

Opponents' View#

• Worry that including short-term work-permit holders could lead to turnover and gaps in service when permits expire.
• Concern about screening, training, and oversight if the pool of commissioners grows quickly.
• Some prefer limiting the role to citizens and permanent residents because it involves legal documents.
• Risk of mistakes or misuse if new appointees are not well trained or monitored.