WINNIPEG, MB: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is applauding the Manitoba government for extending its 14 cent-per-litre fuel tax cut, but Taxpayers are also calling on the government to rein in spending.

“This gas tax cut extension means more savings for families when they need it most,” said Gage Haubrich, CTF Prairie Director. “It’s great to see the government listen to Manitoba taxpayers and help them by continuing to make life more affordable.”

On Jan. 1, the provincial government cut the 14 cent-per-litre provincial fuel tax for six months. Budget 2024 extends the cut for an additional three months. A two-car family will save $375 over the entire length of the cut, according to the government.

The budget is projecting a deficit of $796 million for 2024-25. Expenses are projected to rise by $1.4 billion and revenues are increasing $960 million over last year’s budget. The government is projecting a balanced budget in 2027-28 with a surplus of $18 million.

By the end of the year, the provincial debt will be $35.4 billion. Interest payments on the debt will cost taxpayers $2.3 billion this year, working out to $1,520 per Manitoban.

“Despite taking in record amounts of money from Manitobans, the government is still failing to balance the budget,” Haubrich said. “The government is kicking the debt can down the road and wasting close to $200 million per month on interest payments.”