On April 19th, the federal government released their first budget in over 2 years. It has been long anticipated to show the direction for Canada’s COVID recovery. It was anticipated to be big, and they weren’t wrong. The document is over 700 pages long! Check it out. Budget 2021
Generally, this budget focusses clearly on a shift towards a green economy. They have increased their GHG reduction target beyond what the Paris Agreement calls for, aiming for 36% below 2005 by 2030, up from 30%. There is also a strong COVID recovery direction with significantly higher spending in 2021-22 than in later years.
The news has covered a lot of the big things; Universal Childcare, COVID relief, minimum wage, affordable housing, etc. This update will focus on items within the budget that are relevant to cycling and active transportation.
VCB made a submission of budget recommendations in February, prior to Budget 2021.
