COVID-19. Currently, British Columbia is not legally allowed to run deficits.The amendments also clarify the existing limits while the legislative assembly is not in session to maintain essential services and respond to provincial emergencies and disasters like a pandemic.“We are making sure people and business have the support they need, while we work together to restart and rebuild an economy that works for everyone,” Finance Minister Carole James said.“Much has changed since we released Budget 2020, and deficits will occur as a result of lower government revenues and our plan to invest in people and support our province’s recovery.” B.C.