Dr. Kellie Leitch Calls for New Children’s Fitness Tax Credit

Dr. Kellie Leitch, Member of Parliament for Simcoe—Grey today announced her Private Member’s Bill that will make more affordable for Canadian parents to keep their kids healthy and active. Her Bill, an “Act to Amend the Income Tax Act (Child Fitness Tax Credit)” proposes a new Children’s Fitness Tax Credit with added improvements for parents of children with disabilities.

“I have long been a passionate advocate for healthy and active children,” said Dr. Leitch. “Even before I entered elected politics, I was involved in the initial development of the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit, which was revolutionary in that it helped families get kids active and healthy. I believe that canceling this credit was a poor choice. With this Bill, I hope to fix this and make it easier for Canadian children to lead a healthy active lifestyle.”

Dr. Leitch’s Bill will allow:

• Parents of a child aged 18 and under who is enrolled in an eligible physical activity will be able to deduct up to $500 from their taxes in an eligible taxation year;

• Parents of a child aged 21 and under who has a disability and is enrolled in an eligible physical activity will be able to deduct up to $1000 from their taxes in an eligible taxation year;

• Parents of a child aged 18 and under who has a disability and is enrolled in an eligible physical activity will be able combine both credits for a deduction of $1500 in an eligible taxation year.

43% of Canadian families with children claimed the previous Children’s Fitness Tax Credit in 2014. The government eliminated it in 2017.

For more information, visit www.healthykidshealthycanada.ca