COLUMN: Report from the Legislature – Affordability should be NDP priority

The past decade has brought profound changes, for example, global pandemics, economic shocks, war, and tariffs. As your representative in the Manitoba Legislature, I see it as my responsibility to help ease the burdens these events have placed on us and our families. It is through this role that I share a growing concern, one that affects every household across our province.

The NDP campaigned on a promise to make life more affordable for Manitobans. Yet since taking office, they have done the exact opposite. While no government is perfect, there is a serious problem when elected officials make bold promises, then reverse course entirely. That’s not just poor policy. It’s a betrayal of public trust.

In 2023, the NDP inherited a number of affordability measures from the previous Progressive Conservative government. The measures included a 50 percent rebate on school property taxes, inflation-adjusted income tax brackets, and an increased basic personal amount tax exemption. Together, these tools gave working families a step ahead during the difficult times we faced.

Nearly two years into their mandate, the NDP has dismantled many of these programs. While doing so, the NDP turned a $373 million surplus into a deficit exceeding $1 billion. Someone has to pay for that. Quietly and without public consultation, they have allowed income taxes to rise by halting the indexation of tax brackets. Without indexing, where tax brackets are adjusted for inflation, families are pushed into higher tax brackets despite no real increase in purchasing power. It’s a hidden tax hike, and one that hits hardest during periods of inflation.

The changes to the school property tax system have also left many families worse off. The NDP scrapped the previous 50 percent rebate and replaced it with a flat $1,500 rebate. While a small number of households receive a benefit, most are left paying more. This uneven approach creates winners and losers. Unfortunately, too many Manitobans fall on the losing end of this tax.

If we want to attract doctors, healthcare professionals, and skilled workers to Manitoba, we must foster an environment where they can afford to live, work, and raise their families. That begins with policies that support affordability. Whether we’re dealing with the ripple effects of global tariffs or local inflation, Manitoba must be a place where people can get ahead, not fall behind.

As we navigate these difficult times, I welcome your questions or comments by email to Ron@RonSchuler.com or by mail to Box 150, Oak Bank, Manitoba R0E 1J0.