YOUR PERSPECTIVE: B.C.’s Budget is working for British Columbians

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I know from talking to people in my community that strengthening the healthcare system, especially support for those struggling with mental health and addictions issues, is incredibly important to British Columbians. This budget dedicates funds to attracting more doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals to B.C. and making investments in initiatives that will reduce wait times for people. It also dedicates $1 billion to support British Columbians who are suffering from issues related to mental health and substance use.

Fatal crash

One person deceased after fatal crash on 264 St. in Langley Thursday afternoon: RCMP

1h ago

Volkswagen Beetle shell dismantled, removed from B.C. rock face by helicopter

4h ago

Structure fire

Arson could be the cause of suspicious house fire in Abbotsford Thursday morning: AbbyPD

4h ago

The past few years have really illuminated some of the realities of climate change, and we know how important it is for our province to be prepared. That’s why Budget 2023 continues work our government has done with CleanBC and provides support for our new Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness – to focus on making sure that we can help communities be more climate resistant, and plan for a changing climate.

Global inflation has caused a lot of distress for people, and our government is focused on putting money back into people’s pockets, especially those who need it most. In addition to historic childcare fee reductions, affordability credits, and other recent actions like reducing ICBC rates and eliminating MSP premiums, we are continuing to help with costs through Budget 2023.

We are saving people money. 80% of all households in British Columbia will benefit from the changes made to the BC Climate Action Tax Credit. This means that individuals could receive up to an additional $447 per year. Families with Children will notice a 10% hike to the monthly BC Family Benefit beginning in July, with an annual top up for single parents who are trying to make ends meet.

Wednesday, March 8th is International Women’s Day. As Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity, a woman, and a mother to a teenage daughter, one of my favourite initiatives from this year’s budget is the historic and unprecedented decision in this country to make prescription contraception free. Beginning April 1st, over 60 prescription contraceptives, including most oral hormone pills, injections, copper and hormonal IUDs, implants, and the morning-after pill, will now be free to British Columbians. This could save someone who is spending an average of $25 per month on birth control roughly $300 per year, or, up to $10,000 in their lifetime.

These initiatives and actions only scratch the surface of what Budget 2023 has in store for people. This year’s budget also includes planning for critical infrastructure, training programs for the one million job openings we’re expected to see over the next 10 years, relief for student loan borrowers, and even more ways to support British Columbians going through a difficult time in all corners of the province. Our government believes in investing in British Columbians to make sure we can weather whatever storms we may face, and we’re going to continue to work to create a stronger B.C.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of Fraser Valley Today or Pattison Media.