Shadow Referendum Q3: Should non-permanent residents wait 12 months before qualifying for social programs?
Official Question 3 on Alberta's October 19, 2026 referendum ballot reads: "Assuming that all Canadian citizens and permanent residents continue to qualify for social support programs as they do now, do you support the Government of Alberta introducing a law requiring all individuals with a non-permanent legal immigration status to reside in Alberta for at least 12 months before qualifying for any provincially-funded social support programs?" This proposal mirrors the official ballot question. Supporters frame it as a residency commitment before drawing on provincial programs. Opponents argue it would leave newcomers without a safety net during their first year. Vote Support for Yes, Oppose for No — exactly as you would on the official ballot.
HOW THIS WAS COUNTED
Who could voteVerified people in Alberta
This question is for people who verified a government ID through Didit, our verification partner, with Alberta as the region on their ID.
BallotsOne ballot per verified person
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CountingBallots are counted in batches of at least 10, and the last ones when voting closes.
The totals change in steps. Results are published as totals.
TotalsAfter you vote, and for everyone at close
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