Provincial Budget Committee Releases Report

By 250 News

 After hearing the budgetary priorities of 5,800-plus British Columbians, the  all party Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services has wrapped up its Budget 2008 consultation process.

In response to this year's budget consultation questionnaire, the committee's report contains 55 recommendations - including 17 recommendations for addressing climate change; nine suggestions for ensuring the sustainability of B.C.'s health-care system; and four recommendations on enhancing housing
supports.

Rural  residents  expressed concerns that proposals for tax shifting and additional transportation taxes could impact rural people disproportionately. In general, the committee recommends that government consider incentive-based programs targeting behavioural change for both individuals and businesses, before punitive taxes are considered.

"It was clear from our consultations that although British Columbians place a strong economy at the top of their list, they also want the province to be a leader in developing and promoting and adopting new technology to
address climate change," said committee chair Bill Bennett, MLA. "The committee's report contains several recommendations including tax credits to encourage the production and consumption of environmentally friendly
products, support for B.C.'s agricultural producers, incentives for the development of a competitive biofuels manufacturing industry, and prudent investments in transit."

 The committee's report includes recommendations on topics such as arts funding, wildlife conservation, child care accessibility,  post-secondary education costs, and funding for restorative justice programs.

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