VANCOUVER, B.C.: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation applauds B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad for announcing that a Conservative government would not introduce new taxes on British Columbians without putting it to a referendum. 

“British Columbians deserve the right to vote on tax increases in a referendum before politicians take more of their money with tax hikes,” said Carson Binda, British Columbia Director for the CTF. “Rustad is right to make sure taxpayers have their say at the ballot box before they get hit with new taxes.” 

The B.C. Government would not be able to introduce new taxes without first asking British Columbians for permission through a referendum, under the proposal from the B.C. Conservatives. 

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation has long advocated for taxpayer-protection legislation.

Alberta already has legislation requiring referendums prior to any hikes for sales taxes, income taxes and business taxes.

“Too often politicians promise not to raise taxes during an election and then break those promises and hammer taxpayers with bigger tax bills,” said Binda. “Promises aren’t enough. Taxpayers need real protection. If politicians want more money from taxpayers, they should have to take the question to a referendum.”

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