Toronto: The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is pleased to see the passage of The Ontario Tax Plan for More Jobs and Growth Act, 2009 (Bill 218) as it will pave the way for increased business competitiveness, stronger communities and job growth.
“Businesses in Ontario have consistently called for smarter taxation – that is taxation that is clear and consistent, that makes it easy and inexpensive to comply, and one that does not impede or penalize investment – today’s reforms move Ontario forward in that direction,” says Len Crispino, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC). “These tax reforms will make Ontario a less expensive place in which to do business and in a global marketplace where business and investment are extremely mobile, this competitive edge will lead to greater investment and more job creation.”
The OCC and the network of chambers throughout the province have been advocating since 2004 for a tax reform package that includes sales tax harmonization, the elimination of capital taxes, the consolidation of corporate tax collection, and more competitive personal and corporate income taxes. The passage of Bill 218 puts in place the final pieces in this tax reform package.
“Every Ontarian wins with today’s tax reforms because Ontario’s economy wins. It takes strong businesses to create jobs and wealth for everyone,” adds Crispino. “The recovery cannot occur on the backs of governments alone. With these tax reforms in place, Ontario companies will have the confidence and ability to get down to business and invest in our communities once again.”
These tax reforms are also endorsed by the Smart Taxation Alliance, a growing group of non-partisan leaders representing millions of workers and hundreds of thousands of employers in Ontario. The OCC is a founding member.
