“It’s good to see the federal government taking a step forward on the Canada Disability Benefit.

The maximum benefit is significantly lower than many were expecting, including what the PBO estimated would be enough to close the gap between provincial benefits and the poverty threshold. It is unclear whether the benefit amount will vary based on the severity of a person’s disability.

It’s concerning that there was little acknowledgement of the inherent value of work, as well as the benefits, both financial and non-financial, that come from employment. However, the government is right to mention phase-out rates, which hopefully will mean that clawbacks won’t create a disincentive to work.