CFIB Urges Government Action on Taxes, Spending & "Family Day"
Vancouver, February 20, 2012 - As BC's provincial government prepares to unveil the budget for the 2012/13 fiscal year, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business is appealing to Premier Christy Clark to ensure that the needs and priorities of the critical small- and medium-sized business sector are not forgotten.
"BC's small business sector is the backbone of our provincial economy and has been hit hard by global economic turmoil and rising costs at home," says Shachi Kurl, CFIB's Director of Provincial Affairs.
"We are very encouraged by recent statements from Finance Minister Kevin Falcon indicating that BC is on track for a balanced budget by 2013/14. Our surveys show that 91% of CFIB members consider this a priority, and it's imperative for the health of BC's business climate that this be the case," says Kurl. "We will be looking to ensure this government keeps spending within reasonable limits tomorrow."
Ms. Kurl says that CFIB will also be looking for government to honour its commitment to eliminate the Small Business Tax. "We recognize the fiscal circumstances of this government, and understand it is likely not possible to eliminate the tax by April 1st, 2012, as originally promised. However, we call on the government to do so as soon as is fiscally possible within a balanced budget framework."
Kurl says CFIB will also be looking for action to help mitigate the impact of the proposed Family Day holiday, which CFIB estimates will cost an average small business paying average wages $1135 in labour costs alone. "Member support for Family Day nearly doubles when potential government offsetting measures are considered." CFIB is also looking for a freeze on the Carbon Tax Rate after July 1, 2012; and looking to see the Taxpayer Fairness and Service Code enshrined in legislation as part of a clear and consistent transition back to the PST.
Shachi Kurl will be present for Tuesday's budget lock-up and release to provide reaction on behalf of BC's small business sector. To arrange for an interview, please call 604.684.5325.
As Canada's largest association of small- and medium-sized businesses, CFIB is Powered by EntrepreneursTM. Established in 1971, CFIB takes direction from more than 108,000 members in every sector nationwide, giving independent business a strong and influential voice at all levels of government and helping to grow the economy.
