BC Distracted Driving Law vs UBER & Canada's Digital Services Tax

Imagine being penalized for a simple screen touch while trying to make a living. Michael Mulligan of Mulligan Defence Lawyers joins us to unravel the outdated distracted driving laws that put gig economy drivers in a bind. Our conversation sheds light on how these regulations, which only permit screen interactions for phone calls, fail to consider today's work environment for gig workers like Uber Eats drivers. We highlight a noteworthy case where a driver was convicted for accepting a delivery, underscoring the urgent need for legislative reform. You'll also hear about some amusing quirks in the law, like the allowances for CB radio microphones, which highlight the disconnect between current laws and modern work practices.Switching focus to international trade, we explore the strategic dimensions of Canada's Digital Services Tax Act. This 3% levy on Canadian revenues of major US tech firms, such as Facebook and Amazon, is not just a tax—it's a diplomatic tool. We examine how this legislation fits into the larger geopolitical puzzle, especially in light of past US tariff threats. Conversations veer into the fascinating implications of raising the tax rate, arguing that these companies could still find profitability despite a higher levy. Moreover, we look at how other nations might follow suit, using similar measures to navigate trade tensions with the United States.Follow this link for a transcript of the show and links to the cases discussed.