EDMONTON – The Alberta Next panel delivered its report on Friday, December 19, 2025, recommending a province-wide referendum on withdrawing from the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and other significant changes.

CPP Referendum Proposed

The panel’s report states that creating a provincial pension plan was a key topic of debate. A vote should only occur after residents receive comprehensive information on the advantages and disadvantages of Alberta managing its own pension.

The referendum would be contingent on an Alberta pension plan matching or improving the payouts and premiums of the federal system.

“Replacing the CPP with an (Alberta plan) is the most financially meaningful initiative Albertans have the right to pursue on our own to enhance our sovereignty and financial independence within a united Canada,” the report stated.

RCMP Replacement Recommended

The panel also recommended continuing efforts to establish an Alberta police force to replace the RCMP when the current contract expires in 2032. The report cited concerns about police staffing levels, especially in smaller communities.

“Some, like Cypress County, have been paying the RCMP with zero officers provided,” the report stated.

Other Referendums Suggested

The Alberta Next panel suggested additional referendums on:

• Increased provincial control over immigration.
• Specific constitutional questions, including abolishing the Senate.

The panel also proposed a cost-benefit analysis of Alberta operating its own tax system and urged the province to push for equalization reform.

Government Response

The report was released without a news conference, and Premier Danielle Smith was unavailable for comment. Her office referred to Smith’s previous statements that placing the CPP issue on the ballot for the following fall would be difficult.

NDP Opposition

Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi criticized the Alberta Next project as a distraction from government failures in health care and education.

“The government has spent millions of taxpayer dollars on a sham consultation, where they actively silenced anyone who dared to disagree with them,” Nenshi said.

Nenshi also stated the CPP issue is a pretext to create a government-controlled fund.

Why This Matters

The Alberta Next panel’s recommendations could significantly reshape Alberta’s relationship with Canada. Referendums on CPP and policing represent fundamental shifts in provincial autonomy and financial control. The debate will likely intensify as Albertans weigh the potential benefits and risks of these proposed changes, especially regarding the province’s financial future and the delivery of essential services.