This shift highlights concerns about increasing bureaucratic barriers and the need for renewed efforts to simplify regulations.
The annual report evaluates government performance in three key areas: regulatory accountability, regulatory burden, and political priority.
Alberta led the rankings once again, securing an A for the second consecutive year. Nova Scotia and Ontario closely followed with strong performances, while British Columbia and Quebec earned respectable B+ grades. On the other hand, Newfoundland and Labrador joined Manitoba at the bottom with an F, indicating significant regulatory challenges.
Alberta excelled in all categories, receiving top marks for regulatory burden reduction and political commitment to streamlining processes. The province’s efforts reflect a strong push to improve business conditions and reduce unnecessary administrative hurdles. Meanwhile, Nova Scotia and Ontario also demonstrated significant progress, earning A- grades.
The report included a special bonus for housing-related initiatives, recognizing governments that have made efforts to address housing supply issues. Alberta, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia received additional points for their contributions in this area.
The federal government received a C grade, indicating room for improvement in simplifying regulations at the national level. Saskatchewan, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick fell in the mid-range of the rankings, with New Brunswick not receiving a full assessment due to a recent change in government.
CFIB continues to advocate for better regulatory policies, emphasizing that reducing unnecessary red tape is essential for economic productivity. The organization encourages all provinces to prioritize reforms that support businesses and communities.
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