What’s changing for BC businesses — September 2026
Here’s what changed this month that matters to businesses like yours — 3 updates, each with the date it takes effect and what you can do about it.
BC Opens $75,000 Shuttle Grants for Central and Northern Operators
Passenger-shuttle operators in central and northern BC can apply for up to $75,000 in operating funding through the Northern Community Shuttle program. The 2026 intake covers up to 80% of eligible operating costs — fuel, wages, insurance, and maintenance — for services running April 1, 2027 to March 31, 2028. Applications are open from August 17 to September 16, 2026, with funding decisions expected in November 2026. Eligible operators must already run a public passenger-shuttle service open to all riders.
Changes: 2026-09-16
Read the full notice — BC Gov News — Transportation
New 0.5% Levy on Interprovincial Industrial Hemp Sales, Expires August 2027
A new federal order requires sellers and producers of industrial hemp products sold across provincial borders to pay a 0.5% levy on the purchase price to the Canadian Industrial Hemp Promotion-Research Agency. The levy took effect August 4, 2026, and automatically expires one year later. Purchasers and processors are responsible for deducting and remitting the levy at the first point of sale or processing, and must keep related records for seven years. If the purchaser fails to remit, the seller becomes liable.
Changes: August 4, 2026
Read the full notice — Canada Gazette, Part II
BC Employment Standards complaint process changes take effect Aug. 1, 2026
Amendments to BC’s Employment Standards Act take effect August 1, 2026, changing how workplace complaints are filed and resolved. Employers who appeal a wage determination will now be required to deposit the disputed amount before the appeal proceeds. The changes also increase opportunities for early resolution of straightforward complaints. BC employers running payroll should be aware that appeals now carry an upfront deposit requirement.
Changes: August 1, 2026 · Affects: BC employers
Read the full notice — BC Gov News — Labour
— Dhanda & Company, Chartered Professional Accountants
September 2026 edition