Investments that help Newfoundlanders and Labradorians with the impact that global events are having on the cost of living, advancing a financial plan that puts the province on stable footing, and strengthening our communities were focal points of the spring legislative agenda.
‘Budget 2022: Change is in the air’ was passed and confirms government’s target to be in surplus position by 2026-27. There was an emphasis on the cost of living with a package of supports totaling approximately $142 million. This includes increases in the Income Supplement and the Seniors’ Benefit, as well as broader measures such as a reduction in motor registration fees and the removal of retail sales tax on home insurance premiums.
Subsequently, government also announced a reduction in the provincial tax on gasoline and diesel and a one-time payment to be provided in the fall to supplement the cost of furnace oil used for home heating. All together, government is providing $222 million to help residents cope with cost of living pressures.
In addition to Budget 2022, legislation passed during this sitting included:
- A new Access to Health and Education Services Act that will establish safe access zones around facilities in which health and educational services are provided.
- Amendments to the Judicature Act that will allow for the appointment of an additional Supreme Court judge in the province.
- Amendments to the Urban and Rural Planning Act that help improve services to municipalities and residents and result in a more effective and efficient appeals process.
- Amendments to the Petroleum Products Act that increase transparency in the fuel pricing process.
- Amendments to the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act to add the Inquiry Respecting the Treatment, Experiences and Outcomes of Innu in the Child Protection System to Schedule B of the Act.
- Amendments to the Income Tax Savings Plans Act and the Pension Plans Designation of Beneficiaries Act that allows for the designation of beneficiaries through electronic means.
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“Traditionally, the spring sitting of the House of Assembly focuses on the provincial budget. While that was again the case during this sitting, government also placed emphasis on helping residents deal with the daily financial pressures they are facing during this unprecedented time. I thank all my colleagues, on both sides of the floor, for their thoughtful debate and contributions as we passed important legislation on behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Government House Leader
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Media contact
Luke Joyce
Executive Council
709-729-0084
lukejoyce@gov.nl.ca