Battle Against Red Tape Continues

A law that requires a written affidavit to register a business, an obsolete licence from a bygone era, and unnecessary paperwork required to do business are all on the chopping block as part of government's continuing battle against red tape.

Robbie Harrison, Minister of Business and Consumer Services, today introduced the Business Efficiency 1999 Act, the second in a series of annual attacks on red tape.

"Businesses don't need to wade through needless paperwork and antiquated processes just to deal with government," said Mr. Harrison. "These changes will save taxpayers money, improve service delivery to all consumers and further encourage business growth."

The results of this initiative will be the cumulative impact of many small changes that are supported by the business community and the Task Force of Licences, Permits and Approvals. This year's business efficiency act is part of a larger initiative to eliminate inefficiencies across government.

The task force reviewed almost 300 government licences, permits, regulations and certifications, and released a report containing 36 general policies and 96 specific recommendations to reduce the hassle factor for businesses and consumers. The recommendations were accepted by government in 1997, and Mr. Harrison said the project is in full swing with 100 per cent of the recommendations to be carried out by the end of this year.

"The Nova Scotia government has made significant progress toward reducing the burden on businesses," said Peter O'Brien, vice-president Atlantic, Canadian Federation of Independent Business and task force member. "Many of the recommendations are built around the priorities of Nova Scotia's business community and will result in meaningful changes."

The Business Efficiency 1999 Act amends legislation administered by two departments, Business and Consumer Services and Transportation and Public Works. Among other things, it:

• establishes a three-year shelf life for the Lender and Seller Extending Credit Registration
• establishes the expiry date of the Lender and Seller Extending Credit Registration to the anniversary date
• removes the requirement for businesses to provide an affidavit upon registration
• updates three LPRCs (Licences, Permits, Registrations and Certifications) to be consistent with the LPRC Act
• establishes criteria for legal proof of age under the Solemnization of Marriage Act
• makes housekeeping amendments to three other acts

"This is a long-term commitment that supports all sectors of our economy," said Mr. Harrison. "The annual business efficiency bill ensures a process to deal with unnecessary burdens on business."