- Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson says Alberta and Ottawa can still meet the objectives of their November MOU on a new pipeline and carbon capture project, even if the April 1st deadline is missed. The agreement ties pipeline development to a major carbon capture initiative and requires progress on carbon pricing, methane emissions, and impact assessment processes. Hodgson says that both governments remain committed and are working in good faith, noting that deadlines are important but can be flexible if progress is being made. Alberta’s Minister of Affordability and Utilities, Nathan Neudorf, echoed that significant differences remain, but both sides share the same goal and are negotiating practical, cost-effective solutions.
- Premier Danielle Smith says the Province is heading into “significant” deficits due to lower oil prices, with the upcoming budget expected to be challenging. The government now projects West Texas Intermediate oil to average $61.50 USD per barrel, down from the $68 USD forecast in last year’s budget, though the reduced differential between WTI and WCS helps compensate somewhat. While deficits were already projected, they are expected to grow, though the Premier has ruled out tax increases and deep service cuts. Smith says spending will continue to prioritize health care, education, support for vulnerable residents, and infrastructure, even as tough decisions are made. The opposition has criticized the government’s financial management, pointing to past spending decisions and ongoing pressures in hospitals and classrooms. The Premier also renewed calls for federal tax and equalization reform, arguing Alberta sends too much money to Ottawa while facing its own budget shortfalls.
- Premier Danielle Smith and Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides have announced a $143 million investment to establish 476 "classroom complexity teams" across Alberta. Composed of one teacher and two educational assistants, these teams will support K-6 classrooms in managing diverse academic and behavioural needs, such as English language learning and specialized enrichment. Minister Nicolaides claimed that targeting early grades provides foundational stability and is more cost-effective than secondary school remediation. The initiative is informed by data from 89,000 classrooms and supports a broader commitment to hire 3,000 teachers and 1,500 assistants over three years. While the Alberta Teachers' Association characterizes the funding as a response to years of systemic pressure, the government frames it as a strategic adaptation to maintain high-quality educational standards. The teams will be distributed province-wide, with 171 assigned to Calgary and 143 to Edmonton.
- Alberta has paused a recent decision that removed provincial health coverage for some temporary foreign workers after concerns were raised by employers and communities. In early January, the Province made workers on certain International Experience Canada permits ineligible for public health insurance, with many only discovering the change when attempting to renew coverage. The issue drew particular concern in the Bow Valley, where the tourism sector relies heavily on these workers. The government now says the decision was premature and is reviewing the policy. For the time being, affected permit holders can again qualify for coverage if their work permit is valid for at least 12 months and they can show full-time employment. Local advocates say clearer public communication is urgently needed, warning that uncertainty could disrupt hiring ahead of the busy summer season.
- Alberta is increasing traffic fines starting March 13th, with most speeding tickets rising by 8% - 9% and more serious offences jumping up to 50%. For example, fines for going 10 km/h over the limit will increase to $120 from $110, while those exceeding 50 km/h over the limit will face $620, up from $495. Drivers speeding in construction zones or near emergency vehicles will also see higher penalties, with a 30 km/h over fine rising to $540 from $499. The steepest increase applies to reckless driving, racing, or stunt-related offences, which now carry a $710 fine, up from $473. Other penalties include 30% hikes for driving without a licence, driving with suspended registration, and using a phone or performing distractions while driving. Justice Minister Mickey Amery says the increases align Alberta with other provinces and aim to improve road safety. The last traffic fine adjustments in the province were in 2020, 2015, and 2003.
