New year gas tax relief good and it needs to be permanent

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is highlighting the major Manitoba tax changes for the New Year.

“Premier Wab Kinew is right to cut gas taxes to help out at the pumps, but affordability isn’t just a six-month problem,” said Gage Haubrich, CTF Prairie Director. “With the federal government set to hike the carbon tax in April, drivers need all the help they can get to make gasoline and diesel more affordable in Manitoba.”

On Jan. 1, the provincial government is cutting the 14 cent-per-litre provincial fuel tax which the government currently charges drivers.

The suspension will last at least the next six months. Families will save $250 over that period.

The governments of Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador and Alberta have all extended provincial gas tax cuts.

On April 1, the federal government is increasing the carbon tax to 18 cents per litre of gas and 21 cents per litre of diesel.

In total, the federal carbon tax will cost the average Manitoba household about $502 in 2024, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officer, and that’s after accounting for the rebates.

“Kinew needs to continue to shield Manitobans from the full financial sting of the carbon tax,” Haubrich said. “Manitobans drive everyday to get to work and take their kids to hockey practice. They need permanent relief from taxes at the pump.”

You can read the CTF’s New Year’s Tax Changes report here.