One man has started a petition against the provincial government’s new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) which would transition some residents out of Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program next summer. “You’re starting from such a small pot, a small income to begin with, so any change is a big change relative to you,” said Darryl Learie, who has been relying on AISH for nearly 30 years. Learie has severe anxiety, chronic depression and is autistic. Learie’s petition points out five main concerns with ADAP, including a $200 reduction in the monthly benefit and a reduction in the amount people can earn before the benefits are clawed back. “The more I look into the program, the more it concerns me,” he said. “I feel like I’m drowning and this petition is me flapping my arms trying to stay afloat.” Learie initially had 900 signatures on the online petition before finding out that the province only accepts hard copy petitions. Now he has nearly 200 signatures. “If I succeed with one thing, I want it known that the disabled community does not approve of the ADAP program,” he said. Trish Bowman with Inclusion Alberta says ADAP will put people already struggling in a tougher spot. “It’s going to be pretty dire for an awful lot of people,” she told CTV News Edmonton. “We’re going to see people with less income that’s going to result in more food bank usage, possible homelessness.” A statement from the press secretary of the province’s ministry of assisted living and social services said the new program aims to provide pathways to employment for individuals who can work but need supports. “AISH is intended to support Albertans with severe disabilities that result in them being permanently unable to work,” said the statement. “ADAP will empower Albertans with disabilities who are able to work to pursue fulfilling job opportunities while continuing to receive the supports they need.” Those on AISH will be automatically transferred to ADAP come July 1, 2026. The core benefit for ADAP is a proposed $1,740 per month. AISH offers a monthly benefit of $1,901. If an ADAP client is unable to find a job after receiving employment services, they will continue to receive financial and health benefits, said the province. If their medical condition progresses to the point where they are unable to work, they can be assessed for AISH. From July 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2027, people can choose to remain on ADAP or be assessed for AISH. The province said it will continue to match the AISH amount during that period. Those who wish to stay on AISH will need to provide a disability assistance medical report which will be reviewed by a disability assistance adjudicator and referred to the AISH medical review panel for final determination of eligibility. If the panel determines an individual is not eligible, they will remain on ADAP. Employment income exemptions will be reduced for AISH clients when ADAP comes into effect.
