Nova Scotia has expanded who can be nominated for the Order of Nova Scotia, marking the most significant update to the honour in nearly two decades.
Under new regulations, anyone who lives in the province or has a meaningful connection to it can now be considered, even if they are not Canadian citizens.
The province has also increased the maximum number of annual appointments from six to ten, allowing more exceptional contributors to be recognized each year.
Premier Tim Houston says the changes modernize the honour on its 25th anniversary and bring it in line with similar awards across the country.
Another major update introduces a formal process allowing a member to be removed if they are convicted of a crime or serious professional misconduct.
Nominations remain open to the public, with an advisory council reviewing submissions and recommending recipients to the lieutenant‑governor.
