FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government today introduced amendments to the Gasoline and Motive Fuel Tax Act as the next step in implementing a made-in-New Brunswick carbon tax on fossil fuels effective April 1, 2020.

The provincial carbon tax will replace the federal government’s backstop carbon pricing system.

“For us and for New Brunswickers, climate change is real, man-made, and worthy of action,” said Finance and Treasury Board Minister Ernie Steeves. “One of our key priorities is to energize the private sector. With our made-in-New Brunswick carbon tax plan, we will protect New Brunswickers and ensure the sustainability of our environment, as well as that of our communities and our economy.”

Amendments to the act include a carbon pricing plan for 20 fossil fuels. These amendments will also allow the provincial government to decide how to best allocate carbon pricing revenue back to New Brunswickers.

“Our made-in-New Brunswick solution is fair and it will achieve results,” said Steeves. “Our ultimate goal is to protect New Brunswick consumers and businesses while at the same time ensuring that we are doing our part to combat climate change.”

Steeves said he is proud that New Brunswick has already reduced its carbon emissions by 28 per cent since 2005 and is on track to meet its share of the national target of 30 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030.

More details on the carbon tax plan will be available in the new year.

An energized private sector is one of the government’s key priorities. More information about the government’s priorities and measurements is available online.