BC Societies – Get Ready For Transition

The new Societies Act (BC) will come into force on November 28, 2016 and replace the existing governance rules of the current Society Act (BC), which applies to over 25,000 non-profit organizations in British Columbia. Most of the provisions of the new Act will automatically apply to all pre-existing societies as of that date.

The new Act contemplates a two year period in which societies must then "transition" by restating the text of their Constitution and Bylaws to be in conformity with the new Act. During the period from November 28, 2016 until "transition" is completed, a society would not be permitted to make any intervening changes to its Constitution or Bylaws. Also, certain provisions contained in the existing Bylaws may cease to have effect (if contrary to the new Act) even though the Bylaws have not yet been restated.