“We need policies that balance environmental goals with the realities of everyday life. This new bag tax fails on both fronts.” - John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia
July 16, Vancouver, BC: John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of British Columbia, today strongly criticized the Provincial Government’s new regulation that mandates a minimum charge of 25 cents for paper bags and two dollars for reusable bags at all retail stores across the province.
“This is yet another tax on everyday life,” Rustad declared. “David Eby and his government have once again shown their complete and utter disregard for the financial struggles of British Columbians. This regulation is nothing more than an unnecessary burden on families and individuals who are already grappling with the rising cost of living.”
Rustad emphasized that the new bag charges, which came into effect yesterday, are a clear example of government overreach that adds more red tape for small business owners. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they are already dealing with inflation and other regulatory pressures. This new mandate only complicates their operations further and imposes additional administrative burdens.”
“The notion that this regulation will benefit the environment is misguided,” Rustad continued. “Forcing consumers to pay extra for bags will not lead to meaningful environmental change. Instead, it punishes people for routine shopping activities without offering viable, sustainable alternatives. This is not how we achieve environmental progress.”
Rustad called on the Provincial Government to reconsider this regulation and work towards more practical, effective solutions that support both environmental sustainability and the economic well-being of British Columbians. “We need policies that balance environmental goals with the realities of everyday life. This new bag tax fails on both fronts.”
The Conservative Party of British Columbia stands with the people and small businesses of this province against this ill-conceived regulation. “We will continue to fight for common-sense policies that respect the hard-working citizens of British Columbia and foster a thriving, sustainable economy,” Rustad concluded.
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