British Columbia Proposes New Tax on High Earners to Support Provincial Healthcare
Victoria, Monday, 5 October 2026.
British Columbia’s proposed 24.5% tax on incomes over $1 million aims to fund provincial healthcare, though critics warn the policy could drive away vital medical specialists.
British Columbia Proposes New Tax on High Earners to Support Provincial Healthcare
British Columbia Premier David Eby announced on Sunday, 4 October 2026, a plan to introduce a new tax bracket for incomes exceeding $1 million [1][2]. The proposal aims to generate revenue specifically designated for reinforcing the province’s healthcare infrastructure [3]. This announcement was made while campaigning in Comox on Vancouver Island, ahead of the scheduled provincial election on 24 October 2026 [2][4]. The Premier emphasized that strong public services require contributions from those who earn more during economic challenges [4].
Proposed Tax Bracket Adjustments
Under the proposed structure, the top two existing income tax brackets would see rates rise by two percentage points, while lower brackets remain unchanged [1]. The new bracket for incomes over $1 million would be taxed at a rate of 24.5 per cent [2]. Incomes between $265,545 and $1 million would face a rate of 22.5 per cent, while those between $190,504 and $265,545 would be taxed at 18.8 per cent [1]. According to the party, these changes would apply to less than four per cent of earners [1].
Conservative Party Response
In response, the B.C. Conservatives stated that the plan would tax doctors and specialists that communities are fighting to recruit [2]. The party argued that the measure could drive medical professionals out of the province [3]. A statement from the Conservatives noted, “There is no problem the NDP don’t think can be fixed by raising your taxes” [1]. Peter Milobar, a Conservative candidate, criticized Eby for unfulfilled promises from the 2024 election, specifically citing a cancelled $1,000 annual grocery rebate [2].
Additional Economic Promises
Beyond the tax proposal, Eby’s government promised price guards for certain groceries, gasoline, and diesel [3]. The plan includes temporarily lowering the provincial motor fuel tax by 10 cents per litre [4]. Eby also indicated intentions to introduce a new tax on empty condominiums and lift the speculation and vacancy tax [2]. The Premier emphasized that the business community depends on a functioning province where employees can find health care [4].