B.C. birth alerts class-action lawsuit leads to $66M proposed settlement
Posted on: Jun 12, 2026 22:41 IST | Posted by: Cbc
A division-action causa for people who were the case of " nativity alerts" in B.C. Has resulted in a proposed $66-million closure, according to class counsel lawyers.
"Birth alerts," also called "hospital alerts," were a controversial practice that allowed child welfare workers and agencies to tell a hospital that an expectant parent's child might need protection after birth.
The practice disproportionately affected Indigenous families, according to a news release from class counsel CFM Lawyers LLP.
The alerts often led to babies being seized from mothers just days after they were born.
"People should not have to publicly relive painful experiences to be heard or supported," said Adrianna Zeleniski, representative plaintiff, in the release.
"One thing this proposed settlement does is create a process that avoids a lengthy trial. I hope it also helps people understand they are not alone."
The Supreme Court of B.C. Will be asked to approve the settlement at a hearing scheduled for Dec. 4.
Ending birth alerts a 'red herring' that doesn't address root causes of child apprehension, experts say
B.C. Ends 'birth alerts' in child welfare cases, but advocates say it's only first step
According to the class action's FAQ webpage, the proposed settlement is "not an admission that the province did anything wrong."
"It is a legal compromise to resolve the claims."
The proposed settlement would create a process for people to seek whether a birth alert was issued about them, provide compensation and offer trauma-informed support, according to the release.
Class members would be eligible for a minimum of $2,000 in compensation, and Indigenous class members would receive an additional amount.
People can be part of the class action if a birth alert was issued about them in B.C., even if they were not told an alert was issued, between May 31, 1980 and May 8, 2026.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.