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Essex MP Chris Lewis has launched a private member’s bill aiming to change the Income Tax Act to allow tradespeople expanded travel claim expenses.
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The bill, called An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (deduction of travel expenses for tradespersons), would allow tradespeople to claim expenses for work at least 120 kilometers from home.
“By 2025, Ontario alone will need an additional 350,000 tradespeople to fill the current need,” said Lewis. “I look forward to working with parties to pass this important legislation and give the necessary support to our trades across the country when they travel for work.”
Lewis said the bill seeks to let tradespeople file expenses for travel, accommodation and meals in the same way self-employed people can make claims.
“When it comes down to it, this legislation is just basic fairness for tradespeople,” he said. “I made a commitment to tradespeople in my riding to bring forward this bill if re-elected.”
Lewis’ bill was seconded by fellow Conservative MP Warren Steinley, who represents Regina-Lewvan. The bill will likely be debated this spring.