Government tables bill to amend the Health Authority Act

Press Release

March 23, 2026

The Government of Yukon has tabled legislation to amend the Health Authority Act. These changes provide the clarity needed to pause the implementation of a health authority and determine the best path forward for the Yukon’s health system with Yukon First Nations. The proposed amendments remove transition requirements in the current Act that compel specific steps by the government, the initial health authority board and Yukon Hospital Corporation.

Pausing work on a health authority allows the government to direct resources to frontline services, support and recruit health care professionals, improve facilities and increase funding for Yukon’s hospitals. This approach supports the Yukon government’s mandate to work with Yukon First Nations on shared priorities and improve the health system for all Yukoners.

The government remains committed to working with Yukon First Nations to advance shared priorities including cultural safety, community wellness planning and developing electronic health records so patient information, especially for Yukoners in rural communities, travels with them through the health care system.

This legislation provides the clarity needed to pause implementation and take the time required to determine the best path forward for Yukon’s health system. It allows us to focus on what matters most right now: patient care, workforce stability and making practical improvements to the care and services Yukoners depend on.

Minister of Health and Social Services Brad Cathers

Quick facts

• The Health Authority Act currently contains mandatory transition provisions that limit flexibility to pause or change course without legislative amendments.
• The proposed amendments are about governance, legal clarity and implementing the new government’s commitments to Yukoners.
• The government will continue to work with Yukon First Nations, health system employees, unions and partners during the reassessment period.
• The Health Authority Act received Assent on April 29, 2024, but most parts are not yet proclaimed.

Media contact

Tim Kucharuk
Press secretary, Cabinet Communications
867-335-2419
tim.kucharuk@yukon.ca

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