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Chris Lewis MP tables bill allowing tradespersons to expand travel claim expenses

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ottawa, ON – Chris Lewis, Conservative Member of Parliament for Essex, today introduced legislation in the House of Commons to amend the Income Tax Act.

In the same manner as self-employed Canadians, this bill will allow tradespersons to claim travel expenses for work at least 120 kilometres from their residence. These expenses include travel, accommodation, and meals.

“It is an honour to rise in the House of Commons to introduce my bill, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (deduction of travel expenses for tradespersons),” said Lewis. “By 2025, Ontario alone will need an additional 350,000 tradespeople to fill the current need. 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.”

As often is the case, tradespersons can be expected to travel long distances from one job to the next far from home. With inflation at a 30 year high, and during the ongoing cost of living crisis, this bill is a common-sense proposal for hard-working Canadians.

“When it comes down to it, this legislation is just basic fairness for tradespeople,” said Lewis. “I made a commitment to tradespeople in my riding to bring forward this bill if re-elected.” Lewis’ bill was seconded by his colleague, Warren Steinley, Conservative MP for Regina-Lewvan.

The bill is expected to come up for debate in the House this spring.