Surrey, B.C. (Rajeev Sharma): CentreBC leader Elenore Sturko has announced a package of proposed measures aimed at easing financial pressure on British Columbians, with the party estimating that a typical two-income family could save approximately $640 annually.
The plan focuses on reducing provincial income taxes, expanding renter support, limiting utility and vehicle insurance increases, creating more affordable childcare spaces and offering rebates on public transportation.
Sturko said the proposals are designed to help households manage rising everyday expenses and make monthly budgets more predictable.
“People are working hard and still struggling to afford the basics,” Sturko said, adding that the party wants to reduce household costs and leave working families with more disposable income.
Income tax relief and increased renter support
Under the proposal, CentreBC would reverse the NDP government’s 2026 increase to the lowest provincial personal income tax bracket, bringing the rate down to 5.06 per cent from January 1, 2027. The party estimates the change would save a two-income household around $540 annually.
The party also plans to raise the renter’s tax credit to $600 per year and link it to inflation, allowing the benefit to increase as prices rise over time.
Limits proposed on electricity and insurance increases
CentreBC has pledged to cap residential BC Hydro rate increases at the inflation rate, with an annual ceiling of three per cent between 2027 and 2030.
For vehicle insurance, the party says it would maintain the existing freeze on ICBC basic insurance rates until spring 2027. After that, increases would be kept at or below inflation through 2030.
The proposals are intended to give households greater certainty when planning for recurring bills.
More $10-a-day childcare spaces
The platform also promises 20,000 additional childcare spaces costing $10 a day by 2030. CentreBC says the rollout would prioritise communities facing the longest waiting lists and use federal funding already secured through 2031.
The party argues that expanding access to lower-cost childcare would help families manage expenses while addressing shortages in communities where demand is highest.
New commuter credit proposed
Another element of the plan is a refundable BC Commuter Credit. Under the proposal, eligible commuters would receive 15 per cent back on monthly and annual public transit passes, as well as multi-trip fares on BC Ferries.
CentreBC says the credit would provide additional relief for people who depend on public transportation and ferry services for regular travel.
The party has published the full platform on its website at www.centrebc.ca/platform.
The announcement sets out CentreBC’s proposed approach to affordability ahead of the province’s political contest. The measures remain party commitments, and their eventual implementation would depend on the party forming government and carrying out the proposed policies.
