On March 3rd, 2010 at 12pm there is a  demonstrative rally against HST on bicycles  at the Legislature in Victoria, BC.   HST  would increase taxes on bicycles from 5%  GST to also include PST (currently sitting at  7%).  If HST is implemented in July of this  year, we’d all have to pay 12% on bicycles  and bicycle related items.

Here’s a post from Lana Popham, Opposition  MLA in BC:

“We can stop this new tax on cycling if all  cyclists and friends of cyclists come  together and make their voice heard.

There are many reasons to oppose the HST.

The fact that it will result in a tax hike on a green and healthy mode of transit is an excellent example of what is wrong with the HST.
Your support will show the B.C. provincial government how much public support there is for progressive cycling policy.

Yes, cycling: right now in B.C. we don’t pay the 7% PST when we purchase bicycles, locks, helmets, chain oil and so on.

If the HST is implemented in July we will have to pony up that 7%.

If the government of British Columbia is sincere about its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, taxing bicycles and other products and services that allow people to reduce their personal emissions does not make any sense.

In 1981, the government implemented a PST exemption for bicycles and related safety equipment. This was a very progressive measure… and never has it been more needed.”

So if you are in or around Victoria on March 3rd, please head down to the Parliament buildings and make your voice heard.  Naked bikes will be there.