Summary#
Bill 12 would change who can qualify as a commissioner for taking affidavits in New Brunswick. A commissioner is authorized to witness sworn statements and affidavits (written statements made under oath). The bill would allow some people with valid work permits to qualify, in addition to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
The source shows that the bill was introduced at first reading on October 28, 2025. It does not show that the bill was passed or that the change is in effect.
- A person could qualify if they are a Canadian citizen.
- A person could qualify if they are a permanent resident of Canada.
- A person could qualify if they hold a Canadian work permit that allows them to work in New Brunswick.
- The bill changes an eligibility rule under the Commissioners for Taking Affidavits Act.
- The bill does not explain how applicants would be assessed or whether other requirements would change.
What it means for you#
- People with work permits: If the bill becomes law, a person with a work permit allowing them to work in New Brunswick could become eligible to serve as a commissioner for taking affidavits. They would still need to meet any other requirements under the Act.
- Canadian citizens and permanent residents: The bill would continue to list these groups as eligible based on their status, subject to the Act’s other requirements.
- People who need affidavits witnessed: There could be more people available to provide this service. The bill does not guarantee that services would become faster, cheaper, or easier to find.
- Government administration: Officials responsible for appointments or oversight may need to review work-permit information when assessing applications.
- Timing: The source material only shows first reading. The proposed change would not apply unless the bill is passed and starts to operate.
Expenses#
No direct public cost is identified in the available material.
- Government administration: The bill may create some administrative work because applications could involve checking work permits. No estimate is available.
- Applicants: The bill does not identify a new fee or other direct cost.
- People using the service: The bill does not state whether fees charged by commissioners would change.
- Public finances: No estimate of savings, added spending, or lost revenue is provided.
No publicly available information.
Proponents' View#
- The bill appears intended to broaden eligibility for serving as a commissioner for taking affidavits.
- Allowing eligible work-permit holders to serve could increase the number of people available to provide this service.
- This could improve access in places where there are not enough commissioners.
- The bill would link eligibility to a valid work permit that authorizes work in New Brunswick, rather than allowing all temporary residents to qualify automatically.
- The source material does not include statements from supporters.
Opponents' View#
- The bill does not explain how work permits would be checked, renewed, or monitored after a person is appointed.
- It is unclear whether the proposed change would create enough additional commissioners to improve access in practice.
- A possible concern is that the bill provides little detail about training, oversight, or accountability for newly eligible commissioners. These matters may already be addressed elsewhere in the Act or its rules.
- The bill does not provide information about possible administrative costs or effects on service fees.
- The source material does not include statements from opponents or evidence of specific objections.