The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) welcomes the Saskatchewan government’s announcement to eliminate the industrial carbon levy, making Saskatchewan a fully carbon tax-free province. This decision aligns with SARM’s long-standing advocacy for a practical approach to addressing environmental challenges, one that supports the economic vitality of rural communities and the agriculture sector.
“Today’s announcement is a significant step forward for rural Saskatchewan,” says Bill Huber, SARM President. “By eliminating the industrial carbon levy, the province is taking a crucial step to reduce unnecessary costs for our municipalities and agricultural producers. This move will help maintain the competitiveness of our rural economies and support the well-being of our communities.”
SARM has strongly advocated for the need for environmental policies that recognize the unique challenges and contributions of rural Saskatchewan. The association believes that federal carbon taxes are not the solution, and a made-in-Saskatchewan approach is essential for ensuring that any environmental initiatives do not disproportionately burden rural residents and businesses.
“SARM appreciates the provincial government’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges through methods that respect provincial autonomy and support local economic development,” added Huber. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the government to ensure that our rural communities remain strong and resilient in the face of changing environmental policies.”
This decision is seen as a positive step towards fostering economic growth and stability in rural areas, where the impacts of federal carbon pricing have been particularly felt. SARM remains committed to advocating for the interests of its member municipalities and working with the government to promote the prosperity of rural Saskatchewan.
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For interview requests please contact:
Amy Roettger, Manager, Strategic Communications, SARM
aroettger@sarm.ca or 306.761.3730
Background: SARM is the independent association representing rural municipalities in Saskatchewan, serving as the primary advocate for its members before senior governments.
Since 1905, SARM has been working to address the concerns of rural municipalities and ensure that their voices are heard by senior levels of government. We provide support to our members in dealing with the provincial and federal governments. We advocate on behalf of our members and help ensure their compliance with legislation and regulations.
SARM also has been mandated and plays an important role in the advocacy of Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector. SARM believes that Agriculture is more than just an industry — it is the very foundation of our rural communities.
In compliance with the Act of Incorporation, SARM directly and lawfully engages in activities that tend to advance the interests of agriculture, including the handling, transportation, processing, and marketing of grain and grain products. Furthermore, the Act instructs that SARM be an actively engaged participant and member of the Canada Grains Council, as well as other organizations, associations, councils, congresses, and bodies advancing the interests of those who produce agricultural products.
