Liquor bags, Bill 201, insurance

If you’re picking up some drinks for the long weekend, there’s a good chance you’ll receive a liquor bag designed by Grade 11 student Portia Miller.

Miller, who attends W.R. Myers High School in Taber, won the annual Students Against Drinking and Driving and Alberta Gaming & Liquor Commission liquor bag design competition to remind Albertans about the dangers of drunk driving.

Miller’s message will be printed on one million bags being distributed in liquor stores across the province.

PUBLIC INPUT ON FIREFIGHTER BILL

The Alberta government is asking for public input on a private member’s bill that aims to prevent volunteer firefighters from losing their regular jobs when they take time off to respond to emergencies.

Bill 201, which is currently under review by committee, would give part-time firefighters who have been employed for at least 90 days by the same employer the ability to take occasional unpaid leave for fire services. It also stops employers from refusing to employ part-time firefighters or hindering their volunteer duties.

The Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future is accepting written submissions online until June 6.

MINOR INJURY REGULATION CHANGES

The government has amended Minor Injury Regulation, bringing sprains, strains and whiplash injuries under the minor injury umbrella. Related physical and psychological symptoms, and some temporomandibular joint (TMJ) injuries, are also considered minor.

Finance Minister Joe Ceci said the changes will help keep auto insurance affordable and fair.

The changes won’t affect other claims, including lost income, medical expenses or property damage.

Albertans suffering a sprain, strain or whiplash injury in an automobile collision will get treatment through the Diagnostic and Treatment Protocols Regulation.