Making Life More Affordable for Canadians Act

Close Icon

At second reading in the House of Commons

C-4
June 5, 2025 (24 days ago)
Canadian Federal
First reading
0 Votes
Full Title: An Act respecting certain affordability measures for Canadians and another measure
Economics
Housing and Urban Development
Climate and Environment

Summary

This bill is called the Making Life More Affordable for Canadians Act. It makes several changes aimed at reducing taxes and helping first-time home buyers. It also repeals parts of existing laws related to greenhouse gas pricing and makes updates to election rules about personal information.

The main changes include:

  • Lowering the personal income tax rate for the lowest income earners to 14% starting in 2026, with a slight decrease to 14.5% in 2025.
  • Creating a temporary rebate for first-time home buyers on new homes purchased or built after May 2025.
  • Repealing sections of the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act, which previously imposed carbon pricing.
  • Updating rules about how political parties handle personal information, including requiring policies to protect personal data and holding annual meetings on this topic.

What it means for you

If you earn less and pay taxes, you will pay slightly less in income taxes starting in 2026. For example, the lowest tax rate drops from 14.5% to 14%.
First-time home buyers may get a rebate from the government on new homes they buy or build after May 2025. If you qualify, this could save you thousands of dollars, especially on homes worth up to $1.5 million.
The repeal of carbon pricing laws means there will be no federal carbon tax on fuel or industrial emissions, which might influence energy prices.
Changes to election laws mean political parties will need clear, public policies on how they protect personal information, and they will hold yearly meetings to review this.

Expenses

The bill includes funding for the first-time home buyer rebates. It will cost the government money to pay these rebates, especially as many people may claim them. The specific amount of cost is not provided in the summary, but it will be paid out for eligible home purchases.
Eliminating the greenhouse gas pricing laws reduces government revenue from carbon taxes and related fees. Data on the exact fiscal impact is unavailable.
Lower income taxes may reduce government tax revenue, but the amount depends on how many people benefit and their income levels. Data unavailable.

Proponents' View

Supporters say the bill will make life more affordable by giving tax relief to low-income earners and helping first-time home buyers. The tax cuts could leave families with more money to save or spend.
The rebate program aims to help make home ownership easier for new buyers, especially those buying or building new homes after May 2025. This could encourage more people to buy homes and support the housing market.
Repealing the carbon tax laws is seen by opponents as removing a tool to fight climate change, but proponents argue it will lower energy costs and benefit consumers and industry.

Opponents' View

Opponents say lowering taxes and removing carbon pricing could increase pollution and slow efforts to cut greenhouse gases. This could harm the environment and public health.
The rebate program might benefit some people but could be costly and lead to higher government spending. Critics argue it may benefit wealthier buyers more than low-income families.
Removing climate laws may reduce government revenue needed for climate initiatives. Critics say this could hinder Canada's ability to meet climate goals and invest in renewable energy.

Original Bill