One staple of the Covid-19 pandemic, the use of virtual meetings, is set to become a permanent fixture in British Columbia.
The province announced it will be adopting legislative amendments that will allow B.C. corporations, including provincially regulated financial firms, to hold virtual meetings on a permanent basis.
Last April, the government temporarily allowed companies to hold virtual meetings in response to public health restrictions.
“This temporary option has supported more efficient, flexible and accessible business practices for organizations,” the provincial government said in a statement.
As a result, B.C. will permanently dismantle the legislative barriers to electronic meetings.
If companies decide to use the online option, they will be required to enable telephone access for those who can’t participate online.
“B.C. companies, societies, credit unions and co-operative associations have faced the challenges of Covid-19 with creativity and innovation and for many, the opportunity to connect virtually has helped them stay connected during a difficult time,” Selina Robinson, B.C.’s minister of finance, said in a release. “This permanent change will support improved engagement and help remove barriers to participation for people who are unable to attend in-person meetings.”