Last week the provincial government released the 2019 budget. Inside the document contained a modest budget surplus, new funds for education, social services, highways, health, and mental health.

We recently caught up with Rosetown MLA Jim Reiter to talk about the budget and what he’s working on this spring.

With the budget released, budget debate takes place over the next week, and then budget estimates begin in the legislature. We asked Mr. Reiter what stood out for him in the provincial budget.

“There was a number of things. Broadly across government a number of highways projects will be moving ahead, there was some more spending on education, and specific to my file a significant increase to the health budget and probably most noticeably on mental health.”

A large part of that new mental health funding is directed towards the new Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford, which had its ribbon cutting a few weeks ago.

“Yes, I was at the ribbon cutting for that a few weeks ago,” Mr. Reiter says. “It’s an impressive facility, and sorely needed, and the largest single investment in mental health in the provinces history.”

With budget released, Mr. Reiter will now spend the remaining time in session defending his portfolios budget, and working on a few new bills. He plans on getting around the constituency after the legislative session ends in May.

“That’s the best time for me to get around, just want to get around the different communities, and chat with constituents.”

Mr. Reiter has committed to running for another term. His nomination went unopposed in the fall.

“It is a big commitment and one I have totally enjoyed. I’ve met some amazing people, and to have this privileged is not something I take lightly. I was a big supporter of Scott Moe from the start. I had the privileged of doing the introductory speech when he kicked off his campaign. I think his leadership has just been tremendous.”

The legislative session is scheduled to conclude at May long weekend.