“Time to scrap it”: BC Conservatives double down on opposition to the Speculation and Vacancy Tax
John Rustad and the BC Conservative Caucus have opposed the Speculation and Vacancy tax since day one. Now they’re doubling down.
On April 16th Rustad renewed his opposition to the Speculation Tax that has lowered rents and delivered tens of thousands of units of housing for people, calling it a “tax grab” and an “asset tax.”
Cancelling the Speculation Tax would remove rental homes from the rental market and drive up rents for people already struggling in a housing crisis .
Over the last few months, Rustad’s BC Conservative MLAs have also consistently opposed David Eby’s crackdown on speculators in our housing market:
“This hurts home owners and affects the tourism sector in the Okanagan. This is a tax grab by David Ebys NDP and it is hurting British Columbians.” (March 6, 2025) – Macklin McCall
“BC’s Speculation & Vacancy Tax is out of control…This isn’t housing policy—it’s a cash grab.” (Feb 5, 2025) – Brennan Day
Day was unequivocal, declaring it was “time to scrap it.” (Jan 31, 2025)
BC NDP MLA Ravi Kahlon: “Taking action on speculation in our housing market has meant more homes for British Columbians struggling with the housing crisis. It’s disappointing to see John Rustad and his team once again opposing this measure to bring more housing back into the market.”