Saskatchewan Minute: Energy Security, Literacy Funding, and a Small Surplus Projected

Saskatchewan Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Saskatchewan politics.

This Week In Saskatchewan:

• Saskatchewan's 2025-26 budget projects a small surplus of $12 million, but it faces potential challenges due to tariffs from the US and China, which could result in a $1.4 billion revenue shortfall. The budget includes over $900 million in new spending for healthcare, education, and municipal support, while maintaining tax relief for families. However, the government did not include contingency funds for the economic impact of ongoing trade disputes, which critics argue could lead to a deficit. The opposition NDP claims the budget cuts spending on education and healthcare, while the government defends it as a response to economic growth and population increases.
  
  
• The budget includes $2 million to improve literacy for K-3 students, responding to concerns about reading proficiency. Education Minister Everett Hindley emphasized the importance of students reading at grade level by Grade 3 for future academic success. The funding will support resources, teacher training, and potentially screening, with input from educators. Additionally, the budget allocates $4.6 million to expand the Mental Health Capacity Building initiative in schools and includes a $186 million increase in funding for primary and secondary education. This budget also addresses challenges faced by students, including a literacy decline seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  
• The annual elm pruning ban in Saskatchewan begins on April 1st and runs until August 31st to prevent the spread of Dutch Elm Disease, which is spread by elm bark beetles. Pruning during this time increases the risk of infection, as beetles are attracted to fresh cuts. The Ministry of Environment advises homeowners to prune trees before or after the ban and ensure proper techniques to avoid damage and disease spread. While elm trees can be removed during the ban, proper disposal of the wood is required, and transportation or sale of elm firewood is illegal.

Last Week In Saskatchewan:

• It was announced that Saskatchewan is joining the Governor’s Coalition on Energy Security, a group focused on improving energy options and enhancing energy security. The coalition, which includes Alberta and several US states, aims to lower energy costs, increase reliability, and foster sustainable economic development. Premier Scott Moe emphasized Saskatchewan’s role in energy security due to its abundant oil, uranium, and critical minerals. The coalition's goal is to ensure affordable and reliable energy for both Canadian and American families and businesses.
  
  
• Saskatchewan's decision to ban over 50 popular American liquor brands, including Budweiser and Coors Light, has sparked criticism from Canadian brewers. The ban, part of a trade dispute with the US, affects many Canadian jobs tied to these brands, as they are brewed in Canada using domestic barley. Beer Canada has urged the provincial government to reverse the decision, arguing it will harm farmers, retailers, and the hospitality industry, while also limiting consumer choice. Premier Scott Moe acknowledged potential negative impacts on Canadian breweries and promised to reassess the situation.
  
  
• The Saskatchewan NDP's attempt to show national unity by wearing Team Canada hockey jerseys and introducing a motion condemning US President Donald Trump's tariffs and threats of making Canada the 51st state hit several roadblocks. The NDP was forced to remove the jerseys before entering the Legislature, as the Speaker upheld a rule requiring business attire. Additionally, the Saskatchewan Party amended the NDP's motion, removing Trump's name and focusing on the Province's response to tariffs, which ultimately passed unanimously. NDP Leader Carla Beck criticized the removal of Trump's name, emphasizing the need to directly address the person threatening Canada's sovereignty. Premier Scott Moe defended the amendment, arguing that action, not rhetoric, was needed to address the tariffs.