Thursday, July 9, 2026 Every July, a wave of federal benefit payments resets for the new benefit year — and 2026 brings one of the biggest shifts in years. Between a permanent 25% boost to the old GST/HST credit, a fresh Canada Child Benefit increase, and the largest quarterly OAS bump of the year, millions of Canadian households will see different numbers land in their accounts this month. Here's what actually changed, and what to check in your own CRA account. The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . It's not a new program from scratch — it runs on the same CRA infrastructure and eligibility rules — but the payment amounts are 25% higher, and that increase is locked in for five years. The first CGEB payment went out on July 3, 2026. Under the new structure: A single individual with no children can receive up to roughly $679 per year (about $170 per quart...
Tragedy Sparks Reform: B.C. Premier Eby Announces Mental Health Act Overhaul
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In the wake of the devastating Lapu-Lapu Day festival attack in Vancouver, which claimed 11 lives and left many injured, Premier David Eby has pledged to review and reform British Columbia's Mental Health Act. The suspect, who was under mental health care supervision, has raised concerns about the adequacy of current legislation in preventing such tragedies.
Eby emphasized the need for a comprehensive review to address gaps in the system and ensure public safety. Health Minister Josie Osborne will lead the initiative, supported by experts in psychiatry and concurrent disorders. While the timeline for the review remains unclear, the urgency of the matter has been underscored by calls for action from community leaders and officials.
This tragic incident has ignited a broader conversation about mental health care and public safety in the province, with many advocating for reforms that balance individual rights with community protection. The review aims to provide solutions that prevent future incidents while supporting those in need of mental health care.
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