Bill to remove HST from energy bills passes second reading

Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli
News Release

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QUEEN’S PARK – Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli is pleased a Private Members Bill to remove the provincial portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) from home heating costs passed Second Reading in the Ontario Legislature Thursday.

MPPs voted 54-50 in favour of Bill 4, the Retail Sales Tax Amendment Act (HST Rebate for Home Heating), 2011, introduced by fellow Northern Ontario MPP Michael Mantha (Algoma-Manitoulin).

“Prices continue to rise as a result of the government’s expensive, patchwork energy experiments, and Ontario families simply can’t take any more,” said Fedeli.

“They need relief. With today’s vote, they’re a step closer to receiving some, but more is needed.”

The Ontario PC party campaigned vigorously in favour of removing the provincial portion of the HST from both home heating AND hydro bills.

Fedeli is now calling on Dalton McGuinty to do the right thing and ensure the will of the Legislature is followed.

“It’s my hope the Liberals will not stall implementation of this bill so that Ontarians can benefit this winter,” said Fedeli.

“Nowhere is it more important and needed than in Northern Ontario.”

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