Manitoba News: Budget Bill Introduced in Legislature

WINNIPEG –

Manitoba's NDP government plans to increase government-funded benefits for political parties and candidates.

The changes are among dozens outlined in an omnibus budget bill now before the Legislature.

The bill would strengthen the exemption, so that parties and candidates would be reimbursed 50 percent of their election expenses, up from the current 25 percent.

Finance Minister Adrienne Sala says the change will allow Manitobans to run for office without facing financial barriers.

The previous Progressive Conservative government cut the discount from 50 percent to 25 percent, saying it would not benefit the public.

The new bill contains several other changes, including removing debt reduction targets for Crown-owned Manitoba Hydro set by the previous government.

This Canadian Press report was first published on May 6, 2024.