Our Role and Mandate
Elections BC is a non-partisan Office of the Legislature responsible for the administration of the Election Act, Recall and Initiative Act, and conduct of referenda under the Referendum Act.
Elections BC administers the most comprehensive range of electoral legislation in Canada, with the Recall and Initiative Act being unique in the Commonwealth.
Role of the Chief Electoral Officer
As a statutory Officer of the legislature, the Chief Electoral Officer reports directly to the Legislative Assembly through the Speaker. As an independent Officer, the Chief Electoral Officer can make orders, regulations and exercise responsibilities of the position in an impartial manner. The Chief Electoral Officer cannot be a member of a political party, make contributions to a party or candidate, or vote in any provincial elections. The term of office for the Chief Electoral Officer is from the date of appointment until 12 months after the date set for the return of the last writ for the second election for which the Chief Electoral Officer is responsible. The Chief Electoral Officer may be reappointed to further terms of office.
Elections BC’s Vision, Mission, Mandate and Goals
Vision
To be leaders in electoral administration
Mission
To serve democracy in British Columbia through the fair and
impartial administration of the provincial electoral process.
Mandate
To administer the provincial electoral process in British Columbia in
accordance with the Election Act, Recall and Initiative Act,
Referendum Act and Constitutional Amendment Approval Act.
Goals
1. Ensure ongoing support and enhancement of the electoral process
2. Ensure effective and efficient administration of electoral events
3. Provide an inclusive and accessible electoral process
4. Be a learning organization that develops and shares best practices
