Greetings to the Membership,
As I prepare this article, it’s truly incredible—and deeply concerning—what we are witnessing across our province and neighboring regions with the widespread forest fires. The loss of life, homes, seasonal residences, outbuildings, and vast forested and agricultural areas is unprecedented. Manitoba alone has seen over 20,000 people evacuated—something we haven’t experienced on this scale since the flood of 1997.
Resources are being stretched to their limits, and it appears that only significant rainfall will help bring this emergency under control. It’s only June, with the hottest months still ahead of us. We all hope for a rapid improvement, but in the meantime, this situation is understandably affecting the daily lives of many.
If you can help, I encourage you to do so. Respect fire restrictions, offer support to those who have been displaced, and help wherever you can. In times like this, community support makes a significant difference.
I also want to acknowledge the commendable collaboration among all three levels of government. Their coordinated response and commitment to managing this crisis have been both reassuring and effective.
Bill 38 Update
We recently met with senior officials and representatives from various groups connected to the upcoming legislation. One key development before the third reading is that all vehicles involved in snow clearing—including roads, streets, back lanes, and highways—will be required to use blue flashing lights as part of the legislation. This requirement will be formally written into the new law.
Based on current discussions, if everything continues as planned, the amendments to Bill 38 will be passed this summer and in effect for the upcoming snow season. We will continue to keep members updated as more details emerge.
There’s still much work to do over the summer, particularly regarding the educational and enforcement components of the legislation. The province is leading this effort, supported by a capable and dedicated team.
This is a major initiative, and we are extremely proud to have been the driving force behind the inclusion of snow-clearing equipment in this legislation. Your work keeps Manitoba’s roads and highways open and safe during winter, and it is finally being recognized as essential.
Please continue to read our weekly updates for the latest developments and important information.
Thank you,
Bruce Henley
Stakeholder Relations Manager
Heavy Equipment Aggregate Truckers Association of Manitoba
