B-C has invoked extraordinary emergency powers to protect consumers from profiteers and to maintain the steady supply of goods and services for those who need them. Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said the order suspends the many community states of emergency already in place to avoid a patchwork response to the pandemic, adding the suspension does not apply to Vancouver, which has its own community charter. Municipal bylaw officers will be permitted to enforce orders from the provincial health officer limiting the size of gatherings and business closures.
