The Government of Alberta has announced major changes to disability supports that will deeply impact thousands of vulnerable Albertans.

These announcements have left many in the disability community uncertain of what this means for their income security during a cost-of-living crisis.

Starting in July 2026, many Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) recipients will be transitioned to the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) and will be expected to seek and maintain employment.

ADAP recipients will receive $200 less a month than AISH recipients beginning in 2028, after a transition period expires. Those who wish to reapply for AISH must undergo a review by a medical panel to regain their AISH supports, adding another barrier to accessing essential income support. More information is available on the Government of Alberta website here.

This announcement comes on the heels of the government’s decision to claw back AISH payments from those receiving the new Canada Disability Benefit — a move that undermines federal efforts to reduce poverty among people with disabilities.

We need to make our voices heard.

Contact your Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) today and demand that they protect disability supports in Alberta.

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP.

With just a few pieces of information from you, we’ll prepare a letter for your local MLA that highlights the concerns with the Government of Alberta’s planned changes to disability supports. 

► EXPAND TO READ THE LETTER

Dear MLA [Last Name]:

As a constituent in [Riding Name to be Inserted Here], I’m writing to express my deep concern about the Government of Alberta’s proposed changes to disability supports, specifically the transition from the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) to the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP).

These changes risk destabilizing the lives of thousands of Albertans with disabilities, including those living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world, and the disease often strikes people in their prime — between the ages of 20 and 49. Over 60% of people with MS eventually lose their ability to work due to the unpredictable and progressive nature of the disease.

The proposed shift to ADAP raises serious questions:

  • What definition of disability will be used? Some disability definitions don’t include episodic disabilities like MS.
  • How will “employability” be defined and assessed?
  • Who will determine a person’s capacity to work?
  • What considerations are in place for a job market with Alberta’s high unemployment rate of almost eight per cent, and for employers who often don’t support flexible work cultures to accommodate employees with disabilities?
  • What workplace protections will exist for those with episodic disabilities whose symptoms fluctuate?

In the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, Albertans with disabilities need stability — not uncertainty. The government must pause and listen.

I urge you to take immediate action by calling on Minister Nixon to:

  • Halt the implementation of ADAP until there is full transparency and meaningful consultation with the disability community.
  • Reverse the decision to claw back the Canada Disability Benefit from AISH recipients.

These changes will have real, harmful consequences for people. Your leadership is needed now more than ever to protect vulnerable Albertans.

[Alberta’s disability community needs to be treated with dignity/Your personal comments here.]

MLA [Last Name], please raise these concerns directly with Minister Nixon and stand with the disability community. Your voice can make a difference.

Sincerely,
[Your First and Last Name]
[Your Postal Code]

Cc: MS Canada

 

 

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