Disability advocates pushing feds to cut the tax on virtual programming [Video]

Disability advocates in the Region of Waterloo are calling on the federal government to lift the tax on virtual programming costs.

Abigail Murphy says all-day programs that happen in person are tax exempt, but clients who use those same programs virtually have to pay up.

“Our tax code hasn’t been updated since COVID, and during COVID, virtual services emerged,” Murphy explained CTV News.

She launched the petition to ask Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland to slash the tax. It’s already reached 500 signatures, with a total goal of 1,000.

Kitchener resident Becky Trewin uses an electric wheelchair because of her disabilities. She said it can be difficult to get to and from in-person classes so instead she opts for the virtual option, which happens three to five times per day.

“I meet new friends,” Trewin said.

She also attends virtual drop-in classes hosted by Lubdub Media, an online programming group for adults with special needs.

“From book club, to an art …