Quote:
Originally Posted by IliketoPuck
Does the carbon tax basically equate to an internal Alberta equalization payment scheme?
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Not entirely, but yes partially. Some of the money that was collected from all will be distributed to the poor. That falls under the umbrella of "equalization". Then some will be distributed into public services and programs via the general revenue pool. That kind of falls under the umbrella of "equalization" similar to the way income taxes do (rich pay more but public services are consumed by all). Then the rest will apparently be used on energy/efficiency investments. That doesn't fall under the umbrella of "equalization". Heck, it probably benefits the rich.
Again, in an attempt to head off the people who will inevitably get their nickers in a twist that I am suggesting this is just an "OMG NDP tax and spend" program, I am not suggesting that that is the intent. I am however suggesting that it appears to be a part of the outcome.