Finance Minister Selina Robinson (Image Credit: Flickr / Province of B.C.)

By Langley MLA Andrew Mercier

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Helping families with rising costs

Sep 14, 2022 | 9:36 AM

GLOBAL INFLATION IS MAKING LIFE MORE EXPENSIVE for people around the world. In BC, we’ve seen costs go up for groceries, gas and other household essentials. Family budgets are being stretched, and we know that people need a break.

Our government is focused on helping families make ends meet. Last week we introduced some new targeted supports that will help those who need it most.

We’re putting more money in people’s pockets by boosting the BC Family Benefit for families with children. The increase will provide an eligible family of four with an additional $116 per month from January to March. This benefit is targeted based on income, helping ensure that the maximum amount goes to those families who are hardest hit by riding costs.

The Climate Action Tax Credit will also be increased for the October payment by up to $164 for each adult and up to $41 for each child. The amounts will vary based on income and will automatically go to people who are eligible.

Rent increases will be capped below inflation for 2023. The maximum allowable rent increase will be 2 per cent — instead of rising by the rate of inflation. This means that a renter paying $2,000 per month will save up to $816 next year, and savings will be higher for people who pay more in rent. Remember that landlords legally must provide a full three months notice before they can increase your rent.

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All together, these measures will add up to $1,500 of savings and benefits for an eligible family of four.

These are the next steps we’re taking to help people with the current cost of living. Using existing programs to provide relief is the most secure, timely and cost-effective way to get money to the right people. We are also working on a BC Hydro rebate to help with the cost of electricity, and we’ll have more details to share in the coming weeks.

Since our New Democrat government formed in 2017, we’ve been working on ways to reduce costs for people – from eliminating Medical Services Premiums to reducing car insurance rates, creating free transit for kids 12 and under, and raising the minimum wage.

These measures are all making a difference, but we know there is a lot more needed. As a government we are continuously looking for even more ways to help people with rising costs.

We are committed to building a stronger BC for everyone, not just those at the top.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.