Today's hikes in raft of N.B. fees come at wrong time, say business groups
New Brunswick is increasing fees for over 100 services, including vehicle registrations and various business inspections, to generate $45 million in annual revenue. Business groups argue these hikes place an undue burden on small businesses already struggling with rising costs.
Why it matters
The fee increases highlight the tension between provincial revenue needs and the economic viability of small businesses in a high-inflation environment.
Increases apply to vehicle registrations, plumbing, electrical and elevator inspections, liquor licensing, and justice system fees.
The province expects the increases to generate an additional $45 million a year in revenue.
Increases related to motor vehicles alone will bring in more than $13 million more. Among them are fees for passenger vehicle registrations, which will go up by $5 to $15, depending on the vehicle's weight.
Fees for provincial licensing, inspections in N.B. are taking a jump
August 1 | Duration 3:20 The province is increasing its licensing and inspection fees for more than 100 services, including electrical, plumbing and motor vehicles. Higher fees for boiler pressure vessel inspections, including gas, will add $2 millio to provincial revenues.
Some increases, including fees for electrical, plumbing and elevator inspections, are jumping from $100 to $300.
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