In Canada, Bill C-22 received royal assent on June 22, 2023, officially bringing the Canada Disability Benefit Act into effect. While this is great news, there’s still more work ahead to fully grasp the intricacies of the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB).
The government has decided to tackle the creation of regulations in two stages, currently focusing on the initial phase. The CDB Act now requires the government to provide a comprehensive report outlining its collaboration with the DC, including DA, DP, organizations aiding the disabled, and the general public. This collaboration aims to shape the regulations governing the CDB.
While government employees may continue interacting in various capacities, it appears they are specifically gearing up to engage with the disability community in specific areas. Furthermore, there are plans to establish an online platform for interactions. As soon as more information is released by the government, we’ll provide updates on the Canada Disability Benefit 2023-24 right here on this page.
Canadians Encouraged to Contribute to the Design of the New CDB
The Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities has announced the launch of an online engagement tool for shaping the Canada Disability Benefit Regulations. Canadians are invited to share their input and opinions through this accessible platform, available on Canada.ca until December 21, 2023.
After the anticipated release of the draft regulations in 2024, there will be further opportunities for feedback. The Canada Disability Benefit Act received royal assent on June 22, 2023, following unanimous approval by the Senate and the House of Commons. The Act mandates an inclusive and barrier-free engagement process, involving input from individuals with disabilities in the formulation of regulations for the Canada Disability Benefit.
Canada Disability Benefit Set for Implementation in 2024
In addition to any current federal, territorial, and provincial benefits, along with private insurance payments received by individuals with disabilities, the new benefit is a crucial addition. Handicapped individuals, who don’t currently receive federal, territorial, or provincial benefits, need to promptly submit a separate application to qualify for this new benefit.
It’s essential to incorporate a significant earnings exemption to enable disabled individuals who can work to retain their wages. This way, they can benefit from their earnings without losing out to the costs of living assistance, providing crucial financial support.
To genuinely alleviate poverty for people with disabilities, the Canada Disability Benefit must be part of a comprehensive benefits system that ensures an income above the official poverty line, considering the extra expenses associated with living with a disability.
Online Tool for Canada Disability Benefit Regulations Engagement
The online tool for engaging with the Canada Disability Benefit Regulations is open for input on the Canada.ca website until December 21, 2023. Additional opportunities for feedback will arise after the expected release of the draft regulations in 2024.
The Canadian government is looking for public feedback on the proposed Canada Disability Benefit. Your participation is encouraged to provide insights on details concerning benefits, including eligibility and benefit amounts. This input will be considered in the formulation of rules for the Canada Disability Benefit.
Join In: Guide to Participation
A new consultation process has been instituted by the Canadian government to help shape the rules governing the upcoming Canada Disability Benefit. Individuals with disabilities, family members, caregivers, and professionals working with the disability community are invited to share their insights on how they envision the implementation of this benefit.
Your input is valuable and can cover aspects such as eligibility requirements, application procedures, and notably, the amount of the benefit. The government encourages feedback through various channels, including an online engagement tool where you can provide your thoughts on different aspects of the benefit.
The Significance of CDB
Poverty rates among individuals with disabilities are notably high. In contrast to the 10% poverty rate in the general population, a survey on Disability reveals that 23% of working-age Canadians with disabilities experience poverty. This figure increases to 28% for those with severe impairments and jumps to 34% for individuals with very severe disabilities.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, particularly impacting people with disabilities and leading to a significant spike in these poverty rates. In response, the Canada Disability Benefit is being introduced as a means to establish a basic income for Canadians with disabilities, aiming to address and rectify this pervasive inequality.