Whereas volunteer firefighters and search and rescue members perform a critical, lifesaving role in the safety of British Columbians while receiving no pay and are increasingly difficult to recruit and retain; And whereas the Province of BC passed legislation in 2017 that enabled these volunteers to receive a 3,000 non-refundable tax credit: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask the Province of BC to increase the tax credit for volunteer firefighters and search and rescue members to 10,000 per annum.
Ministry of Finance Each year, the government reviews provincial taxes and considers changes in preparation of the provincial budget. The government then implements tax changes that it considers appropriate within the context of the Provinces fiscal situation and other priorities. UBCMs call for the Province to increase the existing tax credit will be considered as part of these discussions.