BC Conservatives Propose Cellphone Ban and Youth Tax Credits

Lorne Doerkson, leader of the BC Conservative party, announced the Thriving Kids Plan during a media event in Delta on October 18, 2026. The proposal centers on a total ban on cellphones in schools, which Doerkson described as a way to end the "contest between the teacher and a cellular phone."

The plan includes expanded school meal programs for high-need communities and a $500 refundable tax credit for sports, music, recreation, and art camps. Doerkson argued that too many families cannot afford these activities despite working harder than ever.

Infrastructure and support services are also part of the initiative. The party proposes doubling annual playground equipment funding to $10 million to replace facilities at 50 schools per year, matching municipal funding for sports and recreation facilities, and extending funding for families of children with autism.