LANGLEY, B. C. – The 2009-2010 provincial budget has received the support of the B. C. Trucking Association (BCTA).

“The government is tightening its belt on discretionary spending, while simultaneously continuing an aggressive program of infrastructure improvements that will create jobs today, while supporting economic growth well into the future,” says Paul Landry, president and CEO of the BCTA.

“BCTA is very pleased that investments in the Gateway Program, Kicking Horse Canyon, the Okanagan Corridor and the Cariboo Connector will continue. Including federal contributions, almost $3.3 billion will be spent on key projects over the next three years.”

While the BCTA would have preferred that the controversial carbon tax be frozen at 2008 levels, it endorses new provincial sales tax exemptions for idle reduction devices, such as auxiliary power units and cab heaters, as well as for a broader range of aerodynamic devices.

Landry added that “significant progress is being made on plans to develop a comprehensive program designed to reduce commercial vehicle fuel consumption and greenhouse gases.”