HARMONIZING OF PROVINCIAL BORDER REGULATIONS (2006)

The Provincial Government has budgeted $2.2 billion in natural gas royalties alone from activity in the province of BC. This level of activity makes the industry a major contributor to the provincial economy on an annual basis.

However the industries ability to continue to generate this level of activity is being hampered by the lack of harmonization of cross border transportation regulations between Alberta and BC. While The Chamber recognizes that the oil and gas sector is not the only industry affected by the difference in provincial transportation regulations this industry is of critical importance to our future economic propseprity.

The current regulations for commercial transportation differ dramatically causing cross border transportation issues. The companies working in the province face challenges as the majority of head offices are located in Alberta as well as their operations. BC companies are directly affected by the cross border transportation regulations due to the difference in weight, length and safety requirements. Regulations being enforced are outdated and some conflict with one another. Currently a 16’ wide mobile home is able to be hauled on BC highways and a 12’5” wide piece of equipment is not permitted.

THE CHAMBER RECOMMENDS

That the Provincial Government establish a Task Force to begin the process of harmonizing the commercial transportation regulations between the provinces of Alberta and BC.