Newsletter - may 01, 2024

Budget 2024 takes decisive action to safeguard our environment and fortify our communities, transforming them into safer, healthier places for Canadians to live and work.

Our government is deeply committed to combating climate change and preserving both the environment and the well-being of Canadians. This endeavor is about keeping the air, water and soil clean for our communities today and safeguarding these essentials for future generations. It's also about curbing the acceleration of climate change and building an economy geared towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Since 2015, our government has taken concrete action to combat climate change. We are actively assisting Canadians, businesses, and communities in adapting to the repercussions of climate change, while also addressing the cost of living. Our carbon pricing mechanism not only refunds the majority of families through the Canada Carbon Rebate, but also holds major polluters accountable. This year, the rebate will return up to $1,120 to a family of four in Ontario. And, through Budget 2024, we are proposing to urgently return fuel charge proceeds to an estimated 600,000 businesses with 499 or fewer employees through the new Canada Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses. This would deliver over $2.5 billion directly to Canada’s small- and medium-sized businesses.

We are also establishing a nationwide network of charging stations to facilitate the transition to zero-emission vehicles, alongside substantial investments in public transit, rail systems, and ferries to sustain connectivity amid growth. To connect electric vehicle drivers from coast to coast to coast, we have committed more than $1 billion to build charging stations through Natural Resources Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure program and financing through the Canada Infrastructure Bank. Budget 2024 proposes to provide $607.9 million to top-up the Incentives for Zero Emission Vehicles program. Additionally, Budget 2024 proposes to provide $156.7 million over five years, starting in 2024-25, with $388.5 million in remaining amortization, to the Parks Canada Agency for capital investments in Canada’s national parks, national marine conservation areas, and historic sites.

We recognize that investing in our environment today is paramount to preserving the Canada we cherish. Reducing emissions to fight climate change is imperative to protecting the health and well-being of Canadians today and for generations ahead. Climate change is real, and it must be taken seriously. We all must remain committed to protecting our planet and strive to keep Canada a beacon of environmental leadership. Budget 2024 does exactly that.

Budget 2024 discussions:
Last night, I was happy to speak with the U15 university presidents to discuss Budget 2024 and our government’s plans to fund research and innovation, including the digital economy. 

Canada-U.S. Regulatory Cooperation Council:
Windsor is a major trade hub between Canada and the U.S., with 30% of trade between flowing over the Ambassador Bridge daily. This week, I met with local businesses to discuss the Canada-U.S. Regulatory Cooperation Council & the RCC’s mission to make trade easier.

Out and About in Oakville:
The rain in Oakville didn’t stop us from hitting the doors to meet community members & deliver citizenship certificates to new Canadians. And let’s not forget to cheer on hometown hero John Tavares as the Maple Leafs compete in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs!

Visit to Moncton:
This week I gathered with businesses here in Moncton to discuss the re-ignited Canada-U.S. Regulatory Cooperation Council. Through the RCC, we seek to reduce costs & regulatory barriers to trade between our countries. It’s about helping businesses on both sides of the border thrive.

Visit to The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Moncton: 
Last week I started the day here in Moncton by meeting with the Moncton Chamber to discuss Budget 2024 By Cutting red tape, Investing in start-ups, Introducing new tax credits, and so much more, Budget 2024 is empowering Canadian small businesses. 

Discussing Budget 2024 With Our Halton Region Community Members:
It was a busy day last week discussing Budget 2024 with our Halton region community members. Talking about new tax credits & supports for small businesses. The first ever National School Food Program while increasing the Canada Disability Benefit, It’s about fairness - for every generation.

Housing Matters:
The fastest way to build homes is to use the land we already have. Government offices, military buildings, even post offices - can all be turned into affordable homes. We’re unlocking these public lands to lower construction costs & build affordable homes across Canada.

Earth Day 2024:
Canada is one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world - gifts that come with a responsibility to protect them. From protecting our waterways, and limiting single-use plastic, to working towards net zero, we’ll keep protecting this place we call home. 

Budget 2024 on Helping Entrepreneurs: 
Since 2015, we have been there to support Canadian business owners while helping more entrepreneurs succeed.

Read more about how Budget 2024  delivers for small businesses and organizations like Invest Ottawa across the country: https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/2-federal-ministers-meet-with-invest-ottawa-to-discuss-budget-2024-small-businesses-1.6856015

Budget 2024 on Supporting Small Businesses: 
Did you know, that 98% of businesses in Canada are small businesses? To boost our economy & support these businesses, Budget 2024 is introducing the Canada Carbon Rebate for small businesses, investing in $200 million in start-ups across the country and so much more.

Ugadi Celebration With The Halton Telegu Association:
Last week  I joined the Halton Telegu Association to celebrate Ugadi and I shared stories of my childhood with the community. The performances were incredible and I can’t wait to see everyone again soon!

Earth Day Clean-Up in Oakville:
Spending Earth Day keeping our Oakville parks & trails green by doing community clean-ups! Big thank you to Joshua Creek & Chartwell Maple Grove associations and the Jiu Jiu seniors for keeping our parks clean!

Budget 2024 on Boosting Our Economy:
Canadian students, researchers, and innovators are some of the best in the world. And as a professor, I’ve seen their work in action. That’s why Budget is investing $4.6 billion to boost our economy, enhance research infrastructure, and help our students get ahead.