An important environmental bill is heading for debate, promising stronger protections for New Brunswickers.

Green Party Leader David Coon says legislation hasn’t kept up with modern environmental challenges.

Bill 19 will be discussed on Thursday afternoon during its second reading in the Legislative Assembly, where MLAs will vote on whether to advance the bill.

If passed, it would grant residents enhanced rights to clean air and water.

“This bill represents the first substantial update to our environmental protection legislation since the Clean Water Act nearly thirty years ago,” Coon said in a statement.

He expressed concerns that outdated environmental laws have not adequately protected public health and urgently need modernization.

Thursday’s vote will determine if the bill will progress for further discussion.

If successful, it could be a significant step toward strengthening environmental rights in New Brunswick.