(File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / AlphaBaby)(File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / AlphaBaby)
Windsor

Ontario government steps in to halt planned beer tax hike

Ontario will not be hiking a tax on beer November 1 as planned.

The Ford government officially announced it would prevent the increase Friday morning.

"This tax hike is a cash grab from the hardworking people of Ontario, pure and simple," said Premier Doug Ford. "We are putting a stop to it so Ontario beer drinkers can keep more of their hard-earned money."

The previous government planned the increase of three cents a litre.

Beer prices have risen every November 1 for the past three years, and the proposed changes by the Ford government would keep the cost at current levels.

"This is the latest move by our government to make life more affordable for hardworking individuals and families," stated Finance Minister Vic Fedeli. "We introduced Buck-a-Beer, and now we are lowering taxes on beer."

Fedeli also touted his government's decision to roll back drivers' licence renewal fees, lower taxes at the gas pump, and eliminate the Wynne government's cap and trade program.

A release from the government also said it would continue to review how beer is sold in the province and expand beer and wine sales to corner stores and box stores.

Read More Local Stories