For British Columbian (BC) workers, especially in the Fraser Valley area, the effect of U.S. tariffs on Canadian businesses has long been a source of worry. Many BC workers and business owners may question how their rights and job stability are impacted by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s past policies of taxing important Canadian exports such as lumber, steel, and aluminum.
At Glendinning Smith LLP, we see how employment rights are influenced by economic policy. Here are three important rights you should be aware of if you work in an impacted sector to guard yourself.
1. Your right to fair employment protections under British Columbia Law.
Tariffs frequently result in layoffs, downsizing, and contract renegotiations, notably in British Columbia’s manufacturing, forestry, and resource-based businesses. On the other hand, the laws governing employment in British Columbia offer important safeguards:
Notice or Severance Pay—You may be eligible for termination notice or severance pay under the British Columbia Employment Standards Act (ESA) if you are laid off due to tariff-related downsizing. Unless the situation is considered a reasonable business closure, employers are required to offer proper warning or pay to their employees.
Union Protections—If your workforce is unionized, your collective bargaining agreement (CBA) may entitle you to increased severance, recall rights, or protections against sudden job losses.
Constructive Dismissal Protections—If your employer makes a large reduction in your wages, moves you to a different function without your consent, or makes your working conditions worse due to tariffs, the action may be termed constructive dismissal, which makes it possible for you to seek compensation.
2. Your right to file a workplace grievance or complaint.
You can complain to WorkSafe BC or the BC Employment Standards Branch if tariffs result in unfair labor practices, including hazardous working conditions, underpaid pay, or wrongful termination.
Occupational Safety: An economic crisis can lead to hazardous work environments, layoffs, and restructuring, potentially increasing the responsibilities of surviving workers. Companies still have to follow WorkSafe BC rules to guarantee a safe workplace.
Unpaid Wages & Benefits: You are entitled to report violations should your company withhold pay, overtime, or benefits owing to tariffs causing financial difficulty.
Discrimination Protections: Economic downturns should not justify unfair dismissals or discriminatory layoffs. The BC Human Rights Code guards against the termination of employees depending on age, gender, disability, or other criteria.
3. Your right to employment transition support and retraining.
Many workers in British Columbia’s steel, aluminum, and forestry industries have or may lose their jobs as a result of US tariffs. Nevertheless, several federal and provincial programs can assist workers in making the move to new roles.
Assisting with retraining and employment insurance (EI)— You may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits and retraining programs that are sponsored by the government if you lose your job as a result of layoffs caused by tariffs. Participants in the WorkBC program can acquire new skills that apply to various sectors.
There are certain unions and large businesses that provide worker transition programs that help with job placement and skill development. Some unions and employer support organizations offer these programs.
Legal Action for Unfair Layoffs In the event that an employer fails to fulfill their obligations in accordance with the employment regulations of British Columbia, it may be required to take legal action to obtain proper severance or damages.
Protect Your Employment Rights with Legal Support
Economic developments, such as tariff uncertainties, can have an impact on businesses, but your rights as a British Columbia employee are well protected. Whether your issues involve unfair treatment, workplace harassment, or wrongful dismissal, taking preemptive legal action can significantly impact your chances of obtaining fair compensation and safeguarding your future.
Glendinning Smith LLP offers strategic employment law solutions specifically tailored to your circumstances. Serving customers throughout Fraser Valley and British Columbia, our seasoned legal team provides knowledgeable advice on employment contracts, severance negotiations, and workplace conflicts. We invite you to consult Glendinning Smith LLP for reliable legal advice safeguarding your rights and career; please avoid addressing these challenges on your own.