Nova Scotia Keeps Growing This Spring

Nova Scotia will continue to prosper and create new jobs, thanks to legislation passed during the spring sitting of the legislature.

Premier John Hamm said hundreds of thousands of Nova Scotians will see the benefits of lower taxes, passed as part of this year's budget.

"Lower taxes will help working families and keep our economy growing," said the premier. "Nova Scotians are counting on government to continue to put our plan for prosperity into action, so we can keep delivering balanced budgets and pay for the things people care about, like health and education."

In addition to the 2003 budget, 10 new laws were passed this spring. Among the highlights: legislation that increases benefits for thousands of firefighters and legislation that puts a cap on new auto insurance increases until Nova Scotians have had their say on changes to the industry.

"Just as we told Nova Scotians four years ago, we continue to be a government that listens to the people," added the premier. "Strong leadership starts with listening."

The spring sitting also saw Nova Scotia hit a historic high for jobs. Since July 1999, 30,000 new jobs have been created, 90 per cent of them for full-time positions.

"More Nova Scotians are going to work today than at any time in our history," said the premier. "Our plan will ensure this prosperity, growth and job creation will continue for all Nova Scotians."

The spring sitting of the legislature ended on Thursday, May 22.

The following is a list of government legislation passed this spring:

Bill 1 -- Firefighters' Compensation Act Bill 3 -- Personal Property Security Act Bill 9 -- Municipal Law Amendment (2003) Act Bill 17 -- Justice Administration Amendment (2003) Act Bill 28 -- Apprenticeship and Trades Qualifications Act Bill 36 -- Financial Measures (2003) Act Bill 41 -- Appropriations Act, 2003 Bill 43 -- Members' Retiring Allowances Act Bill 45 -- Insurance Act Bill 52 -- Cosmetology Act