Ontario politicians return to Queen’s Park on Monday for a shorter spring session, as Premier Doug Ford prepares to introduce his eighth budget during a time of economic uncertainty.
The budget comes later than usual and will be presented on Thursday. Experts say it is being delivered during a difficult period, with global tensions, U.S. tariffs, and rising unemployment in Ontario putting pressure on the economy.
Ford says his main goal is to protect jobs and help people earn a steady income. However, it is unclear if the budget will include new support for businesses affected by tariffs, after billions were already promised last year.
The province is also dealing with a large deficit, and some experts believe it may take longer than planned to balance the budget. Rising costs of living, along with concerns about health care and housing, are expected to be key issues.
Opposition parties and critics say the government needs to do more to make life affordable and stay transparent, especially as it plans changes to freedom of information rules.
