Alberta Bill 11: Health Statutes Amendment Act.

The Alberta government has passed Bill 11, the Health Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 (No. 2), with implementation expected to start in summer 2026. The legislation introduces two changes that directly affect employer group benefits plans for both active employees and retirees.

• Payor of Last Resort: The Alberta government becomes the payer of last resort for prescription drug and certain supplemental health benefits. Where private insurance is unavailable or members are ineligible, Alberta’s provincial programs continue to cover eligible benefits. This change applies to active employees and retirees alike.
• Coverage at 65+: Employers cannot terminate or reduce drug and health care coverage for active employees aged 65 and older. Age-based restrictions may continue to apply to retiree plans, and Bill 11 does not mandate minimum coverage requirements for private health plans.

What does this mean for you?

At this time there is no immediate impact. Our team is monitoring this closely and will share updates as the Alberta government releases additional details.

Source: Government of Alberta, Supporting a world-class health care system