OPINION (Hill Times): Feds must change Excise Tax Act to make residential energy essential

Winter is coming. And so is your heating bill. This year, more than ever, affordability is all politicians are talking about and in Canada, that talk needs to include affordable heating.

The Prime Minister himself noted that after spending the summer talking to people across the country, his government would work to make life more affordable for Canadians. Changes to the Excise Tax Act will do just that.

With rising prices due to inflation at 30- and 40-year highs, Canadians are concerned about getting through the upcoming winter.

Our 400 members from across the country have heard loud and clear from their customers that home energy affordability is a big concern.

While Canadians do have some choice in juggling costs through the cold months, there is no choice regarding home heating. Like the food we eat, residential energy is essential.

The affordability plan announced by the Prime Minister does not go far enough to address the challenges Canadians will face this winter.

The Canadian Propane Association recommends the government introduce changes to the Excise Tax Act as part of its legislative package addressing affordability and make the HST/GST zero-rated for residential energy, which would make life more affordable for all Canadians.