Reform the Common Law Rules for PWD

Dear David Eby,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the rules surrounding common law partnerships and the social assistance provided to persons with disabilities (PWD) in British Columbia. I believe that the current system is unjust, outdated, and outright insulting to the rights and well-being of PWD. I kindly request your attention and support in addressing these critical issues that affect a vulnerable population in our society.

First and foremost, it is essential to recognize that PWD often face limited options and are frequently forced to choose between highly compromising situations. The existing rules fail to acknowledge the unique challenges they encounter and perpetuate their marginalization. It is high time we reevaluate and reform these regulations to ensure fairness, dignity, and equal opportunities for PWD.

One very pressing, related concern is the inadequate income provided to PWD, which consistently falls below the poverty line. This has been an ongoing issue, leaving PWD unable to afford basic necessities such as housing. The modest incomes allocated to PWD have never been sufficient to cover rent in most areas, leading many to rely on the support of friends and relatives. This dependency further limits their independence and perpetuates social inequity.

Moreover, in the current economy, even middle-class individuals often struggle to rent an average two-bedroom house without at least two incomes. It is inherently unfair to consider the incomes of roommates or spouses when determining PWD's eligibility for social assistance. PWD's incomes should be regarded as entirely their own, separate from the financial circumstances of their household members. At best, failing to do so renders the PWD highly vulnerable to the whims and proclivities of housemates. At worst, failing to do so traps PWD in abusive or unbearable situations, hindering their ability to escape domestic violence or attain any real semblance of independence.

The current rules surrounding common law partnerships involving PWD also create an environment of inequity and instability. It is highly unjust to impose a tax-like burden on the common-law spouses of disabled individuals, leading to resentment, strained marriages, and increased suffering for all parties involved. PWD are effectively forced to choose between preserving their independence or placing unfair and discriminatory burdens upon partners who earn above a modest incomes. This dynamic also perpetuates outdated and sexist paradigms, particularly in heterosexual partnerships, where women often become solely dependent on men due to financial constraints.

Additionally, PWD should always be permitted to contribute to their share of rent, even if their partners or roommates hold high-paying jobs. Restricting their ability to contribute fosters an unequal environment, contributes to social instability, and further marginalizes the disabled party. It is crucial to empower PWD and enable them to have agency over their financial contributions, allowing them to maintain a sense of self-worth, independence, and dignity.

Furthermore, the current rules for common law partnerships involving PWD reinforce discrimination towards the poor and the disabled, discouraging PWD from pursuing stable marriages and stripping them of the limited independence they have been granted. We must strive for a society that supports and enables PWD to build stable relationships, fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.

In light of the aforementioned concerns, I urge you to take immediate action and advocate for the following changes:

1. Revise regulations to allow PWD to contribute to their share of rent, regardless of the income of their partners or roommates, promoting equality and independence.

2. Develop comprehensive support systems and contingency plans for PWD, enabling them to escape abusive or intolerable situations and fostering their overall independence and well-being.

3. Review and update the rules and criteria for common law partnerships involving PWD, ensuring fairness, equity, and individual autonomy.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I eagerly await your response and look forward to collaborating on this important cause.