A new poll has found only 25% of Manitoba’s small business owners are confident their concerns and priorities will get any attention during the election campaign.
Almost three-quarters (72%) told the Canadian Federation of Independent Business that reducing their tax burden is a top priority followed by improving public infrastructure (61%) and cutting personal income taxes (56%). Other top concerns were reducing energy costs (52%), and addressing social concerns (49%).
“Affordability is the top priority for small business owners at this time,” said SeoRhin Yoo, CFIB’s policy analyst. “On top of decreased revenues, sky-high interest rates and mounting debt, small businesses are struggling with increased costs of doing business post-pandemic. That’s why we’re asking all parties to commit to putting the needs of small businesses at the forefront and adopt policies that will provide cost relief and predictability.”
The survey also reveals that 99% of Manitoba small business owners plan to vote in the upcoming election – 58% have decided who they will vote for, while 41% have not.
“The next provincial government has the opportunity to either help, or hinder small business recovery,” said Brianna Solberg, CFIB Director of Provincial Affairs. “High inflation, other government cost increases, labour shortages, and COVID debt levels must be considered as the next government sets its policy agenda.”
Among other recommendations detailed in CFIB’s Manitoba small business election platform, small business owners are calling on the next government to:
– Avoid introducing any new costs (tax increases, new fees, etc.) for small businesses;
– Increase the Health and Post Secondary Education Tax Levy (HE Levy) exemption threshold to $2.5 million;
– Increase the small business corporate income tax rate threshold to $600,000;
– Keep the commitment to eliminate education property taxes, and ensure commercial property owners aren’t paying more than their fair share in the meantime;
– Consider suspending the provincial fuel tax and identify ways to lower energy and utility costs;
– Work with municipalities to lower property taxes and help address other issues like crime and safety, housing, etc.; and
– Continue to take action to address labour shortages.
Manitobans head to the polls on Oct. 3. Advance voting will run for eight days, from Saturday, Sept. 23 until Saturday, Sept. 30.
(Article courtesy of The Winnipeg Sun – Home | Winnipeg Sun Home Page | Winnipeg Sun)
