Petition calls on Christy Clark, Justin Trudeau to abolish MSP premiums

A petition is gaining traction among B.C. residents calling for Premier Christy Clark and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to eliminate MSP Premiums.

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The petition says B.C. is the only province in Canada to charge a flat-rate MSP premium when they should follow the standard taxation policy criteria. The petition notes that all British Columbians pay the same flat-rate premiums, whether you earn $30,000 a year or $3,000,000.

“MSP Premiums favour the wealthy over low-income British Columbians and those on fixed incomes,” reads the petition.

“Contrary to popular belief, MSP premiums do not go exclusively to healthcare but instead go into general coffers.”

At the time of publication, the petition has garnered over 26,000 signatures since its launch three weeks ago.

The petition notes that MSP premiums have doubled in the last 15 years and suggests to replace the current system with a more “equitable approach to funding our healthcare system.”

MSP premiums increased as of January 1. For singles, the rate rose by $3 to $75, and for families, rose by $6 to $150. That equals about a four per cent increase.

To sign the petition, click here.