What Is 33rd National Assembly of Quebec

Overview

The 33rd National Assembly of Quebec is the current legislature of the provincial government, established after the 2022 general election. It represents a pivotal moment in Quebec’s political landscape, marked by a solidified majority for the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) under Premier François Legault.

This assembly plays a central role in shaping provincial laws, budgets, and public policy. With 125 seats up for election, the outcome determined the balance of power among Quebec’s major political parties for the 2022–2026 mandate.

• 90 MNAs were elected from the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), giving them a commanding legislative majority and enabling swift passage of key bills.
• The Quebec Liberal Party won 21 seats, positioning them as the official opposition despite losing ground compared to previous elections.
• The 33rd Assembly includes 12 members from Québec Solidaire, an increase from prior terms, reflecting growing support for progressive policies.
• The Parti Québécois secured only 3 seats, marking a historic low for the sovereigntist party in terms of seat count.
• The first session convened on November 28, 2022, with the Lieutenant Governor presiding over the opening ceremony at the Parliament Building in Quebec City.

How It Works

The National Assembly functions as Quebec’s unicameral legislative body, responsible for debating and passing laws, approving budgets, and overseeing government operations. Each MNA represents a specific electoral district and participates in parliamentary committees and legislative debates.

• Term: The 33rd National Assembly operates under a fixed four-year term, with the next general election scheduled for October 2026, barring early dissolution.
• Each MNA earns an annual salary of $115,775, with additional allowances for leadership roles, committee chairs, and constituency office expenses.
• Legislation is introduced as bills, which must pass three readings and committee review before receiving Royal Assent and becoming law.
• The Speaker of the Assembly, currently France Bonsant, maintains order during debates and ensures adherence to parliamentary procedures.
• Weekly Question Period allows MNAs to directly challenge ministers on government policies, promoting transparency and accountability.
• Committees such as Finance and Health conduct in-depth studies on proposed laws, with public consultations held for major reforms like Bill 96 (language law).

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of seat distribution and voter turnout across the last three Quebec general elections:

The 33rd Assembly saw a significant increase in voter turnout to 66.6%—the highest since 2014—driven by debates over language laws and healthcare reform. This resurgence in civic engagement highlights public interest in provincial governance.

Why It Matters

The 33rd National Assembly shapes critical policies affecting education, healthcare, immigration, and language in Quebec. Its legislative decisions have long-term implications for residents, businesses, and intergovernmental relations.

• The passage of Bill 96 in 2022 strengthened French language requirements, impacting schools, workplaces, and access to government services.
• Increased CAQ control allows for faster implementation of infrastructure projects, such as the $20 billion Plan for Water and Wastewater.
• Québec Solidaire’s expanded presence amplifies advocacy for climate action and social equity in legislative debates.
• With only 3 PQ seats, the sovereignty movement has diminished influence, shifting focus to cultural and linguistic preservation instead of independence.
• Parliamentary diversity improved, with 47% women MNAs, one of the highest proportions in Canadian provincial legislatures.
• Ongoing reforms to immigration policy aim to attract 50,000+ economic immigrants annually, addressing labor shortages across sectors.

The 33rd National Assembly reflects a shift toward pragmatic governance with a strong mandate, balancing economic development and cultural identity in a rapidly evolving Quebec society.