Manitoba Progressive Conservative MLA Jodie Byram says the spring legislative session brought meaningful progress for her party, including new leadership and bipartisan wins.
Byram, who represents the Agassiz constituency, notes, “Obby Khan is bringing some renewed energy, and coming forward with a great vision to rebuild the party.”
Key bills passed with PC support
Among the spring session’s notable legislation, Byram points to Bill 47, the Fair Trade in Canada Act, which received unanimous support.
She remarks, “We obviously are going to support free trade in Canada here and we’ve always wanted to work towards removing some of those internal trade barriers, so that was passed. That is good for Manitoba. It’s good for the economy, it’s good for all of us across Canada.”
Bill 47 was based on a private member’s bill previously introduced by a PC MLA, and eventually adopted by the governing New Democratic Party.
Byram also mentions Bill 232, the Victims of Impaired Drivers Commemoration Day Act.
She says, “What this bill does is recognizes May 1st for all victims of drunk driving, and I believe this will be the first bill of this type in Canada.”
She continues, “That was significant for us in opposition to have that day recognized for that family and of course other victims of drunk driving.”
PC party to reintroduce key bills this fall
Looking ahead to the fall session, Byram says her party will bring forward several previously introduced bills. One is “Debbie’s Law,” a health-related bill that would ensure patients are notified when care is unavailable in Manitoba.
She also supports changes to early screening guidelines for breast cancer, referencing Bill 203.
Byram highlights Bill 236, which targets stalking through vehicle-related penalties.
She notes, “This would take away an individual vehicle or their license to drive in relation to stalking and, protect women, children, in some cases men as well as stalking victims.”
Rural safety and property rights are also on the PC radar.
She adds, “The Criminal Trespassers Act would protect homeowners and property owners from lawsuits. If someone comes to your property and they hurt themselves on your property, they can sue you. This would take that away from those individuals.”
Summer focus on community engagement
Byram says the summer months are no break.
“I look at it as an opportunity to be out within my communities,” she says.
She mentions, “It’s great to see our leader. I know he’s going to be out and about in our rural communities as well as in the city attending many events. People are enjoying the new vision brought forward.”
The Manitoba Legislature is scheduled to return Oct. 1, with several opposition bills expected to be reintroduced.
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