This week the Legislature will be back in session, and our government’s priority remains ensuring people and our communities are safe and supported during the pandemic. But we are also looking ahead to recovery and building a stronger B.C. that works for everyone in our province.
Phase 2 of our immunization plan has also started. This month seniors aged 80 or over, and Indigenous people aged 65 or older, can book their vaccination appointments with Fraser Health. Please check the age-based schedule at gov.bc.ca/BCSeniorsFirst to know when you or your loved one can book an appointment. If you know someone who is eligible to get their vaccination, please reach out to them and help them make their appointment.
We are continuing to deliver supports to individuals and businesses. One new example is the $12 million our government is investing in the new Launch Online Grant program to help eligible small- and medium-sized B.C. businesses with up to $7,500 to launch or upgrade an online store.
For youth and young adults in government care, the extension of emergency measures ensures they”ll have the supports they need during this challenging time. They will continue to access the housing and financial supports to stay where they are living until March 31, 2022.
I am also pleased to share two exciting updates with you about how our government is making ICBC better.
Earlier this month, we launched a new online tool that will give you an estimate of how much money you will save when you renew your car insurance under the new Enhanced Care model that comes into effect on May 1, 2021. On average, people will save about 20% on their premiums the next time they renew.
The new Enhanced Care model is designed to work for British Columbians. Your car insurance will be more affordable, and will provide significantly better care and benefits if you are hurt in a crash. We are making this possible by removing many of the legal costs that are associated with our current system. I encourage you to check out enhancedcare.icbc.com to see how much you could save – you just need your driver’s licence and licence plate number to log in. These savings will be in addition to the rebate cheques being sent out this month.
We are committed to making life more affordable. As we plan our economic recovery from COVID-19, we are building an economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top.
As always, if you have questions or need any assistance with provincial COVID-19 supports, or any other provincial issue, please reach out to my office. We can be reached at 604-936-8709 or rick.glumac.mla@leg.bc.ca.
Thanks, Rick