Owning a small business like Infinity Cannabis in Roberts Creek is no easy feat, especially when navigating the intricate regulations and taxes that come with selling vape cartridges. It struck me as baffling when I inquired about the rationale behind British Columbia's unique Vape Tax, only to receive the answer, "We are protecting the children." This explanation, while seemingly noble, does not hold water when scrutinized more closely.

All vape stores in British Columbia are fully compliant with age restrictions, ensuring that only legal adults access vaping products. The argument that a tax on vape cartridges somehow shields minors is both misleading and misplaced.

British Columbia stands alone in Canada with this tax, putting local businesses at a distinct disadvantage compared to our counterparts in other provinces. This tax not only affects business owners but consumers as well, who may opt to purchase in other provinces where their dollar stretches further.

Statistics show that 12.2% of Canadians aged 15 and older have vaped at least once over a period. Curiously enough, this number is fairly consistent across provinces, indicating that the tax is entirely unrelated to usage rates or youth access issues.

The solution is clear and actionable: eliminate the Vape Tax in British Columbia. By doing so, we remove an unnecessary burden on both consumers and businesses, level the playing field across provinces, and ensure that we are not unjustly punishing adults for a perceived issue that is already being effectively managed through existing age restrictions.

British Columbia can instead focus on educational campaigns to further discourage underage vaping—a proven method of genuine protection.

Sign this petition to support local businesses and advocate for fair treatment across provinces. Together, we can urge policy makers to reconsider this taxation and work towards a more equitable solution. Please lend your voice in demanding the removal of the Vape Tax in British Columbia.