Saskatchewan premier says province will not tighten budget despite challenges

Premier Scott Moe announced the government will table a deficit budget next month and said taxes will not be raised, citing national and international economic uncertainty; Saskatchewan's legislative session begins March 2 and the budget is expected March 18.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said his government will present a deficit budget next month and does not plan to raise taxes, describing the current period as financially challenging. He pointed to broader economic uncertainty, including trade tensions with the United States and tariffs affecting other markets, as factors affecting provincial revenue. Moe said the government intends to protect core services such as health care, education, highways and community safety, and to explore virtual health-care innovations. The Opposition criticized recent spending and use of special warrants, saying the province's debt is growing. Key points: - Premier Scott Moe announced the government will table a deficit budget next month and cited national and international economic uncertainty. - The premier said the government will not raise taxes and plans to protect services including health care, education and community safety. - Moe referenced trade tensions and tariffs as contributors to revenue pressures. - The Opposition criticized recent spending and the use of special warrants, noting the province moved from a small projected surplus to reported deficits. Summary: The government plans to present a budget with a deficit and maintain existing services while pursuing health-care innovations. Saskatchewan's spring legislative session opens March 2 and the budget is expected to be tabled on March 18, and debate and fiscal reporting will follow during the session.