News & Events Bill 7 Economic Stabilization (Tariff Response) Act
Bill 7 Economic Stabilization (Tariff Response) Act
CLR is aware that several parties, including business organizations and municipal governments, have expressed concern regarding the provincial government’s proposed Bill 7 – Economic Stabilization (Tariff Response) Act. Introduced by the current BC government as a requirement to combat U.S. tariff actions, the bill includes provisions that would enable the government to “act quickly” to deal with matters concerning interprovincial trade barriers (Part 1); procurement of goods and services (Part 2); implementation of tolls, fees, and charges (Part 3); make legislative and regulatory changes (Part 4); and more. If enacted, the current government would be able to act under these provisions without the need to seek legislative approval through the democratic process. The Premier would have full ability to act on these matters on his own.
Through our membership in the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and the Business Council of British Columbia, CLR has supported calls to eliminate interprovincial trade barriers. We have also shared concerns about Part 4, which would have granted the government broad authority to change laws or regulations without legislative approval. Such powers raise important questions about democratic oversight and transparency.
Today, the Premier announced that in response to concerns and “anxieties” raised by some groups, including the business community, he was withdrawing for the time being, Part 4 of the Act from Bill 7. He stated the reason as being to permit more time to consult with the groups in opposition of government being able to change any legislation or regulation they deem appropriate without the need to follow the democratic process or consulting with others.
CLR supports the business communities’ position which is in favour of the removal of interprovincial trade barriers and further supports the government’s decision today to withdraw Part 4 of the Act from Bill 7 and to further consult with the business community on this critically important matter. It is unclear what the Premier will ultimately decide to do after the consultation and whether Part 4 or even principles of Part 4 will be reintroduced to the Bill before it is brought to the Legislature. The Premier announced that he fully expects to be tabling the Bill before the end of the current legislative session which reconvenes on March 31.
CLR will continue to keep our members informed as details are made known.
Related Resources:
- Review the bill here
- CBC News article
- North Shore News article
- Business Council of British Columbia statement
- BC Chamber of Commerce response
Sincerely,
Your CLR Team
