Small business owners are calling on the federal parties to include measures that support economic growth and address the growing tax burden in their election platforms.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) announced on Sept. 11 that it is delivering nearly 9,000 signed letters from small business owners across the country as it meets with major party leaders.

Rules on passive investment income

Among the concerns raised in their letters, small business owners underlined the growing tax burden. They asked for a repeal of the federal carbon tax and for a reversal of new rules on passive investment income.

In addition, the letters ask for support of family-run small businesses by exempting spouses from the new income splitting rules and by making it as easy to sell a business to a family member as it is to a stranger.

They also asked the leaders of the federal parties to commit to slowing down or halting additional CPP increases after 2019.

Looking for common-sense

"Small business owners create jobs, support their communities and keep the Canadian economy running,” CFIB president Dan Kelly. “It's time to listen to them and commit to measures that help them succeed. We look forward to a spirited campaign from all parties and will be watching closely to ensure that small business priorities are front and centre leading into Election Day."