The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on all political parties in Newfoundland and Labrador to make tax relief a top priority ahead of the provincial election.

“With an election just around the corner, taxpayers deserve to know where each party stands on cutting taxes,” said Devin Drover, CTF Atlantic Director. “Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are being squeezed and small businesses are struggling to stay afloat.”

Newfoundland and Labrador has some of the highest personal income taxes in Canada and is tied for the highest sales tax rate at 15 per cent. Yet the provincial government’s most recent budget delivered no new tax relief, even as families face sky-high inflation and rising costs.

“The government gave itself a pat on the back for not raising taxes this year, but standing still isn’t good enough,” said Drover. “Other provinces are moving forward with real tax relief while Newfoundland and Labrador falls behind.”

Nova Scotia’s latest budget included a one-point HST cut, an increase to the basic personal income tax amount and a business tax cut. Prince Edward Island followed suit with its own income and business tax relief.

The CTF is urging all parties to commit to cutting the provincial HST and delivering broad-based income tax and business tax relief to help families and grow the economy.

“Tax relief needs to be the core ballot-box issue,” said Drover. “Voters should ask every candidate one question: will you cut my taxes?”

The Newfoundland and Labrador election is expected to take place before October 2025.