News Release WorkSafeNB launches consultation aimed to strengthen New Brunswick’s workers’ compensation system

June 18, 2026

WorkSafeNB is inviting New Brunswickers to share their perspectives on a proposal to strengthen and modernize the legislative framework that supports the province’s workers’ compensation system.  

The consultation, Strengthening WorkSafeNB’s Legislative Framework, focuses on simplifying and clarifying legislation while maintaining the core principles that have guided the system since its implementation.  

Over time, the legislation governing the system has grown more complex, spanning multiple Acts and regulations, with duplication and overlap that can make it difficult to navigate and slower to adapt.  

“This consultation is about building on a strong foundation that will better serve future generations of New Brunswickers,” said Tim Petersen, President and CEO of WorkSafeNB. “The system is working, but we have an opportunity to make it clearer, more accessible, and more responsive to the needs of our province’s workers and employers today and into the future.” 

The proposal explores two key ideas: 

• Bringing multiple pieces of legislation together into a single, consolidated Act to improve clarity and accessibility 

• Creating a clearer distinction between what belongs in legislation and what can be guided through Board policy to support responsiveness, while maintaining transparency and accountability. 

• The proposal is focused on how the legislation is organized and maintained, not on changing the fundamental principles of New Brunswick's workers' compensation system. Foundational elements, including the Meredith Principles, the no-fault compensation system, and the rights and protections of workers and employers, would remain firmly established in legislation 

WorkSafeNB is seeking feedback from workers, employers, and all New Brunswickers to ensure the system continues to be practical, fair, and effective. Public input will help shape the final proposal that will be provided to government in the fall of 2026.  

The consultation will be open June 15 through to July 31, 2026.  

How to participate: 
New Brunswickers are encouraged to review the consultation document and provide feedback on key questions, including whether the proposal clearly identifies which matters should remain in legislation and which are better addressed through Board policy, and where additional clarity or safeguards may be needed. 

To learn more and participate, visit www.TalkSafeNB.ca/legislation