MLA Stone Introduces Free Trade Bill 227 to Eliminate Interprovincial Barriers
WINNIPEG — Today, Midland MLA Lauren Stone, PC Critic for Finance, introduced Bill 227, The Free Trade and Mobility Within Canada Act, to grow the economy and make it easier for Manitobans to do business across the country by eliminating trade barriers for any province that does the same for Manitoba.
“Interprovincial trade barriers cost the Canadian economy billions each year,” said Stone. “Provinces are moving at lightning speed toward Canadian free trade in response to the threat of U.S. and Chinese tariffs, and this bill sends a clear message that Manitoba is open for business.”
Bill 227, modelled after legislation in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and British Columbia, would ensure goods and services from reciprocating provinces are treated as if they were locally manufactured or produced, exempting them from any additional fees or testing requirements for use in Manitoba.
The bill would also require that skilled professionals who are certified in reciprocating provinces be recognized to work in Manitoba within 20 days, provided that they are in good standing and carry adequate insurance in their own jurisdiction.
According to federal estimates, eliminating provincial trade barriers could boost the Canadian economy by up to $200 billion and lower prices by as much as 15%.
Stone is calling on the NDP government to work across party lines to fast-track Bill 227 for passage this spring.
“The bill is a logical way to boost growth, create jobs, and build a more prosperous, united Canadian economy,” said Stone. “We want Manitobans to have the freedom to trade, work, and succeed across the country, but most of all, we want them building their businesses, raising their families, and finding success right here at home in Manitoba.”
-30-
For media inquiries, please contact PCCaucus_Media@leg.gov.mb.ca