Manitoba Pledges to Freeze Electricity and Gas Rates for a Year in Throne Speech

Government announces other measures to help Manitobans cope with rising cost of living

Premier Heather Stefanson says the province is "doing everything we can" to help Manitobans

Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson announced in a throne speech on Tuesday that the province will freeze electricity and gas rates for a year. The move is part of a broader package of measures designed to help Manitobans cope with the rising cost of living.

Stefanson said that the government is "doing everything we can" to help Manitobans, and that the rate freeze will provide some much-needed relief. The freeze will take effect on October 1st, and will last for one year.

In addition to the rate freeze, the government is also providing a one-time payment of $250 to all Manitobans who are 18 years of age or older. The payment will be issued in the fall, and will help to offset the rising cost of food, gas, and other essentials.

The government is also increasing the minimum wage by $1.15 to $13.50 per hour, effective October 1st. The increase will benefit over 60,000 Manitobans, and will help to ensure that they can earn a decent living.

The government is also providing $10 million to the Manitoba Energy Assistance Program, which helps low-income Manitobans with the cost of their energy bills. The funding will help to ensure that all Manitobans have access to affordable energy.

Stefanson said that the government is committed to helping Manitobans during these challenging times. "We know that many people are struggling, and we are here to help," she said. "We will continue to do everything we can to make life more affordable for all Manitobans.