COLUMN: Report from the Legislature – Affordability measures fall short

Legislative session is scheduled to end on June 1. During this Session our PC Caucus have made continued efforts to persuade the Wab Kinew government to take more effective steps towards affordability relief for Manitobans. The weak affordability measures introduced in this year’s NDP Budget will do very little to help Manitobans who are struggling to make ends meet. Grocery staples such as bread, eggs, meats and vegetables are already exempt from PST, so removing the PST from snack foods and a select list of non-essential items won’t help put food on the table for Manitoba families. It might save some people a couple of dollars on the occasional purchase but does nothing to help a monthly household budget. The premier’s much-touted plan to take the PST off prepared meals and snacks claims it would save the average family of four around a $100 per year. Less than $10 per month.

As the Official Opposition, under the leadership of Obby Khan, the PC’s have proposed a plan to raise the basic personal income tax exemption, which is the amount you can earn before having to pay provincial income tax, to $30,000. This initiative would put up to $1,500 per year back into Manitoban’s pockets. In a household with two income earners, it could mean $3,000 in annual tax savings, or an extra $250 on your paycheque every month. We have been calling on the NDP government to adopt our plan, but they have been unwilling to consider adding the proven affordability measure that would truly benefit Manitobans. It was our previous PC government that raised the basic personal exemption from $10,145 to $15,000. Saving Manitobans up to $524 annually.

Manitobans are expressing concerns about the growing difficulty of getting ahead. Why do rising expenses seem to exceed the opportunities available to families who are doing their best to succeed? The root of this issue lies in economic growth. When an economy grows slowly, opportunity slows down with it. This leads businesses to postpone investment, limiting job creation and placing additional burdens on families in their daily lives. When the economy thrives, opportunities become more accessible across our communities. New businesses emerge, job availability increases, and families gain the stability and confidence necessary for future planning. We know that raising the basic personal exemption to $30,000 would help boost Manitoba’s stagnant economy.

Manitoba is equipped with the talent, resources, an industrious workforce required for success, and communities that want to succeed. What we need is strong leadership and a government that prioritizes practical outcomes and fosters long-term opportunities. This includes supporting local businesses, promoting investment, and ensuring that Manitoba remains a thriving environment for families and entrepreneurs alike. What we don’t need is continuing education property tax hikes that affect all Manitobans including family homeowners, small businesses, student renters and seniors on fixed incomes.

As spring unfolds the Lac du Bonnet constituency blossoms. Our region boasts stunning landscapes, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities. From hiking along scenic trails to fishing in our pristine lakes, the natural beauty here is unmatched. We are also home to numerous cultural and historical exhibits, including museums in St. Georges, Whiteshell, East Braintree, Whitemouth and the Pioneer Village Museum in Beausejour-Brokenhead. All of which are dedicated to preserving our heritage for future generations. For golf enthusiasts, the Lac du Bonnet constituency features exceptional courses such as Victoria Beach, Grand Pines, Pine Falls, Mars Hills, Granite Hills, Black Bear, Pinawa, Falcon Lake and Rivers Edge. Each course offers unique experiences and fosters community spirit.

We are fortunate to have a host of annual events to enjoy throughout our region, including in the community of Pine Falls that is celebrating its centennial this year. There are many local fundraisers that help to support these special community events and I encourage you to take part if you are able. I would also like to give a huge shout out to Coach Dwight Hirst from Lac du Bonnet, and the Niverville Nighthawks hockey team on winning the 2026 Centennial Cup on May 17 in Summerside, PEI. Congratulations and thank you for making Manitoba proud!