TORONTO —If proposed new legislation is passed, Ontario drivers will get a modest break in gas and diesel prices starting this summer.
The government said Monday it plans to cut the provincial tax for six months, between July 1 and Dec. 31.
The tax would fall by 5.7 cents a litre, and the fuel tax which includes diesel by 5.3 cents a litre.
The government said the measure would kick in on July 1 to allow manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers enough time to adjust their systems and business processes.
It made the announcement two months before the Ontario election.
Fuel prices have recently surged across Canada.
Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said "Ongoing supply challenges and geopolitical conflicts are pushing up the cost of living" and that "families and businesses need extra help to keep costs low."
The gas tax is currently 14.7 cents per litre, while the fuel tax rate is 14.3 cents per litre.
