The Ontario government says it will send a $200 rebate cheque to roughly 15 million people in the province.
The announcement Tuesday comes as Premier Doug Ford has hinted he could call an early election in 2025.
Ford and Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy provided details about the rebates at a news conference in Scarborough, one day before the government tables its fall economic statement — a fiscal blueprint that anticipates the spring budget process.
The pair said the rebates are necessary because many Ontarians are struggling with the high cost of living.
“We’ve been hearing from people all across the province that they are feeling the pinch,” Bethlenfalvy said.
The cheques will go to every taxpayer, as well as $200 for each child in a family.
The rebates will not be means-tested and are expected to cost the province around $3 billion, the finance ministry says. They will be mailed out early in the new year, according to Bethlenfalvy.
Speaking to reporters, Ford downplayed any connection between the possibility of an early election and the decision to provide the tax-free rebates.
“These are tax dollars going back to taxpayers who are struggling right now,” he said.
More to come.