SoVote

Decentralized Democracy

House Bill

Bill C-382

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
February 14, 2024
An Act to amend the Excise Tax Act and the Income Tax Act (extra-energy-efficient products)
  • This bill, known as Bill C-382, aims to make changes to the Excise Tax Act and the Income Tax Act in Canada. The purpose of the bill is to exempt extra-energy-efficient products from the goods and services tax and provide a tax credit for the purchase of these products. The bill lists various household appliances, air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, lighting fixtures, electronic products, and motors that would qualify as extra-energy-efficient products. The bill also includes provisions for the review of regulations and the designation of these products.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman Argument in Favor of Bill C-382: One of the main arguments in favor of Bill C-382 is that it promotes energy efficiency and encourages the use of extra-energy-efficient products. By exempting these products from the goods and services tax and providing a tax credit for their purchase, the bill incentivizes consumers to choose products that exceed established energy efficiency standards. Energy efficiency is crucial in addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By encouraging the use of extra-energy-efficient products, the bill contributes to the overall goal of reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainability. These products not only help individuals save on energy costs but also have a positive impact on the environment. Furthermore, the bill takes into consideration the need for regular review of the regulations to ensure that the "extra-energy-efficient" designation remains relevant and reflects technological advancements and changes in the consumer market. This ensures that the bill remains effective in promoting energy efficiency and encourages the use of products with exemplary energy efficiency. In addition, the bill recognizes the importance of harmonizing the basis for the designation of extra-energy-efficient products with criteria used in other jurisdictions or by relevant organizations. This promotes consistency and allows for a unified approach in identifying and promoting energy-efficient products globally. Overall, Bill C-382 provides a comprehensive framework to promote energy efficiency and incentivize the use of extra-energy-efficient products. By exempting these products from taxes and providing tax credits, the bill encourages consumers to make environmentally conscious choices and contributes to the overall goal of reducing energy consumption and mitigating climate change.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument Opposing Bill C-382: While the intention behind Bill C-382 may be to encourage energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption, there are several concerns from a right-wing anti-government perspective. 1. Government Overreach: This bill represents yet another example of government overreach into the private sector. By designating certain products as "extra-energy-efficient" and providing tax exemptions and credits, the government is interfering with the free market and distorting consumer choices. It is not the role of the government to dictate which products are more energy efficient or to incentivize their purchase. 2. Market Distortion: By exempting extra-energy-efficient products from the goods and services tax and providing tax credits for their purchase, the government is artificially favoring these products over others in the market. This creates an unfair advantage for certain manufacturers and distorts competition. It is up to consumers to decide which products best meet their needs and preferences, without government interference. 3. Burden on Taxpayers: The tax exemptions and credits provided in this bill will ultimately be funded by taxpayers. This means that individuals who may not be interested in purchasing extra-energy-efficient products or who cannot afford them will still be required to subsidize those who can. This is an unfair burden on taxpayers and goes against the principles of individual liberty and personal responsibility. 4. Inefficient Use of Resources: While energy efficiency is an important goal, it should be achieved through market-driven innovation and consumer demand, not through government intervention. By designating certain products as "extra-energy-efficient," the government may be stifling innovation and preventing the development of more effective and affordable solutions. Additionally, the resources spent on implementing and enforcing this legislation could be better utilized in other areas, such as infrastructure or reducing the national debt. 5. Potential for Cronyism: The process of designating certain products as "extra-energy-efficient" opens the door for potential cronyism and favoritism. The criteria for designation, such as exceeding energy efficiency standards and market share limitations, may be subject to manipulation and lobbying by certain manufacturers or interest groups. This could result in unfair advantages for specific companies and undermine the principles of free and fair competition. In conclusion, while the goal of promoting energy efficiency is commendable, Bill C-382 represents government overreach, market distortion, and an unfair burden on taxpayers. It is more appropriate to allow the free market to drive innovation and consumer choices in the energy efficiency sector, rather than relying on government intervention and
House Second Reading
  • Feb. 14, 2024, 2 p.m.
  • In Progress
  • Read
House First Reading
  • Feb. 14, 2024, 2 p.m.
  • Passed