SoVote

Bill S-258

44th Parl. 1st Sess.

November 23, 2023

Bill S-258, also known as the Fairness for All Canadian Taxpayers Act, aims to address tax evasion and measure the tax gap in Canada. The bill requires the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to include a detailed list of all convictions for tax evasion, including international tax evasion, in its annual report to the Minister of National Revenue. Additionally, once every three years, the CRA must include statistics on the tax gap in its annual report. The tax gap refers to the amount of taxes that should have been assessed but were not, as well as the difference between the assessed and collected taxes. The Minister is also required to provide data on the tax gap to the Parliamentary Budget Officer. This bill aims to increase transparency and combat tax evasion.

A steelman argument in favor of Bill S-258, the Fairness for All Canadian Taxpayers Act, could be as follows: Requiring the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to list all convictions for tax evasion, including international tax evasion, in its annual report to the Minister of National Revenue would increase transparency and accountability. By publicly reporting on these convictions, the government can demonstrate its commitment to cracking down on tax evasion and sending a strong message to potential perpetrators. This could act as a deterrent, reducing the prevalence of tax evasion and helping to ensure a fair tax system for all Canadians. Additionally, including statistics on the tax gap in the annual report every three years would provide valuable information on the extent of undeclared income and the effectiveness of tax enforcement measures. This data can be used to identify areas of concern and tailor enforcement efforts to address spe

Steelman Argument Opposing Bill S-258: While the intention behind Bill S-258 to amend the Canada Revenue Agency Act and require reporting on unpaid income tax is to promote transparency and combat tax evasion, there are several potential concerns with this legislation. 1. Unfair and Stigmatizing: Requiring the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to list all convictions for tax evasion, including international tax evasion, in its annual report may unfairly stigmatize individuals and businesses. Publicizing this information could harm the reputation and livelihood of those convicted and discourage rehabilitation and reintegration into society. 2. Privacy Concerns: Releasing detailed information on tax evasion convictions could potentially violate individuals’ privacy rights. Publishing personal information without consent raises issues of confidentiality and sets a precedent for government overreach in disclosing private financial matters. 3.

44th Parl. 1st Sess.

May 2, 2024, 2 p.m.

44th Parl. 1st Sess.

November 21, 2023