The arrival of 2023 has brought with it government-legislated changes, many of which affect a large number of Peterborough residents.
In Ontario, the staycation credit, that allowed residents a 20 percent personal income credit on eligible accommodations, is no longer. It was put in place to encourage local travel and help the tourism industry recover from the pandemic.
Come February, the province will increase the amount of money someone on Ontario’s Disability Support Program (ODSP) can earn before his or her benefits are impacted. And the minimum wage is scheduled to increase on October 1st, but the amount is yet to be announced.
At the pumps, the province’s six-month gas tax cut, which was to expire December 31st, has been extended until the end of 2023.
Increases in Canada Pension Plan and Employment Insurance premiums are now in effect – a move that will see workers take-home pay reduced by up to $305 annually.
Ontario pharmacies, meanwhile, are now allowed to fill prescriptions with a doctor’s authorization for 13 common ailments, the list including hay fever, insect bites, and urinary tract infections. And, as of June 1st, businesses deemed a high-risk setting for opioid overdoses will be required to have a Naloxone kit on site, with the Province providing the kits for free.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
