The past few years have been challenging for people in Mississauga. It feels like the price of everything has gone up. And while inflation is back to the 2% target and interest rates have been cut four times this year, we know that Canadians are not yet feeling that in their household budgets.
The federal government cannot set prices at the checkout, but we can give Mississaugans more money in their pockets-to help them afford the things they need and save for the things they want.
Today, the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, highlighted the federal government's plan to put more money in the pockets of Mississauga residents.
As Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on November 21, starting December 14, the federal government is giving a tax break to all Canadians. With a GST/HST exemption across the country, Canadians, including those living in Mississauga, will be able to buy essentials like groceries, snacks, children's clothing, and gifts-all tax-free.
This new tax break will apply to:
- prepared foods, including vegetable trays and pre-made meals, salads and sandwiches
- restaurant meals, whether dine-in, takeout or delivery
- snacks, including chips, candy and granola bars
- beer, wine, cider and pre-mixed alcoholic beverages below 7% 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
- Christmas trees
This tax break is projected to last until February 15. This will deliver meaningful savings for Mississaugans who will benefit from purchasing all groceries GST/HST-free, providing real relief at the cash register.
Working Canadians will also get some cash back. We're doing this by providing a new Working Canadians Rebate. That means Canadians who worked in 2023 and had net earnings up to $150,000 will see a $250 cheque in their mailbox or that amount deposited into their bank account, starting early spring. With the Working Canadians Rebate, we are putting money directly into the pockets of the middle class-those who have worked so hard to beat inflation. This will give 18.7 million Canadians that extra help to buy what they need.
Passing this legislation will allow for workers and working families to have more money in their pockets.
Families will be spending quality time together over the coming weeks. Some will light Christmas trees for Santa to put gifts underneath. Some will share meals with family and friends. Some might just make hot chocolate, order some takeout and stay in for a movie night. With these announcements, we're making the holidays easier, no matter what they look like for you, and helping Canadians start the new year with a little more money in their pockets.
