The government can't set prices at the checkout, but it can help Canadians with more money in their pocket. To help them buy the things they need and save for the things they want, today the government introduced Bill C-78, the Tax Break for All Canadians Act in Parliament. Bill C-78 proposes to provide a two-month Goods and Services Tax/Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST) break for holiday essentials, like groceries, restaurant meals, drinks, snacks, children's clothing, and gifts. Bill C-78, the Tax Break for All Canadians Act would provide real relief at the cash register by making the following items tax-free from December 14, 2024, through February 15, 2025:
- Prepared foods, including vegetable trays, pre-made meals and salads, and sandwiches;
- Restaurant meals, whether dine-in, takeout, or delivery;
- Snacks, including chips, candy, and granola bars;
- Beer, wine, and cider;
- Pre-mixed alcoholic beverages below 7 per cent ABV;
- Children's clothing and footwear, car seats, and diapers;
- Children's toys, such as board games, dolls, and video game consoles;
- Books, print newspapers, and puzzles for all ages; and,
- Christmas trees and similar decorative trees.
The government encourages all Parliamentarians and all parties to get Bill C-78 passed quickly and unanimously so we can make essentially all food and many essentials tax-free. This pragmatic tax relief is something we can all support-making life easier for workers and working families during the holiday season, when they tend to face higher than usual costs. By working together, we can help workers start the new year with more money in their pockets.
