The Alberta government has introduced legislation that would direct $10 million from this year's budget towards attracting more workers to the province.

The funds aim to bring skilled workers from other parts of Canada.

During the last election campaign, the Conservative Party promised to provide at least $1,200 to newcomers who move to the province to work in high-demand jobs such as healthcare and trades.

Provincial Premier Danielle Smith said that now she will instead amend Alberta's personal income tax law to offer the newcomers' bonus to allow for a refundable tax credit of $5,000.

Matt Jones, Minister of Economy, Trade and Jobs, also said the government decided that the figure should better reflect the actual cost of relocation.

The program, first announced by former Premier Jason Kenney in 2022, initially targeted Canadians living in Toronto and Vancouver.

Last year, the province focused on attracting Canadians in Atlantic Canada and parts of Ontario to bring workers, primarily in the hotel and restaurant industries that are starved for staff.

Jones also said Alberta faces a shortage of skilled trades in all fields, but said priorities are electricians, mechanics, welders, and crane operators.

He added he would like to address shortages in construction as well.

He explained: "Albertans need homes, schools, hospitals, and jobs".