Saskatchewan Minute: Issue 93

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

📅 This Week In Saskatchewan: 📅

• Happy New Year! Thank you for reading The Saskatchewan Minute and for staying engaged on the issues that matter to Saskatchewan. As the new year begins, we’re focused on the work ahead and the conversations that will shape Saskatchewan's future. We remain committed to advocating for a stronger, more independent Saskatchewan and holding decision-makers accountable. Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy, and successful year ahead.
  
  
• Premier Scott Moe says ongoing global trade disputes are creating economic uncertainty for the province. He argues many of Canada’s current challenges stem from US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats, including potential duties on fertilizer that could hurt Saskatchewan’s potash sector. Moe urges people not to overreact to Trump’s rhetoric and says he will continue exporting potash to the US while pushing for a new trade agreement. At the same time, Chinese tariffs on Canadian canola are adding further pressure to Saskatchewan’s economy. Moe says these combined trade issues will force difficult budget decisions next year, though he has not outlined specific measures. He expressed hope that the economic uncertainty will ease sooner rather than later.
  
  
• As of January 1st, Saskatoon police now have the authority to demand a breathalyzer from any driver stopped at a lawful traffic stop, without needing reasonable suspicion of impairment. This aligns with similar practices already in place by the RCMP and Regina Police Service and stems from 2018 Criminal Code changes. Officers must still have a lawful reason to stop the vehicle, such as a traffic violation, but once stopped, drivers are required to provide a sample. Criminal defence lawyer Linh Pham notes this shift raises Charter concerns, as a breathalyzer is considered a bodily search, and improper timing or procedure can lead to cases being thrown out. Refusing a valid demand can result in criminal charges, though courts continue to scrutinize compliance with the law.
  
  
• Also as of January 1st, new employment standards in Saskatchewan are in effect, affecting tips and certain types of leave. Employers can no longer deduct or withhold tips, and employees whose tips were previously held back can file complaints with the director of employment standards to recover owed amounts. Sick note requirements have also changed - employers may now only request a note if an employee is absent for five consecutive working days. Long-term sick leave has been extended to 27 weeks to align with federal rules. Additionally, maternity leave now includes those who have experienced a pregnancy loss, and a new 16-week unpaid leave is available for people affected by interpersonal violence.
  
  
• Saskatchewan’s government says that, in 2026, a family of four will pay no provincial income tax on the first $65,000 of income, the highest tax-free threshold in Canada. This comes as the second step in a four-year income tax reduction plan, combined with annual indexation to inflation to protect taxpayers’ purchasing power. Deputy Premier and Finance Minister Jim Reiter said personal, spousal, and child exemptions, along with the seniors’ supplement, are each increasing by $500 per year. Various tax credits, including the Low Income Tax Credit, Disability Tax Credit, Caregiver Tax Credit, and First-Time Homebuyers Tax Credit, are also rising to help with affordability. The 2026 indexation rate is set at 2%, providing $42 million in tax savings. 

🚨 This Week’s Action Item: 🚨

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