View source for Heather Stefanson

{{Short description|Premier of Manitoba from 2021 to 2023}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=September 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2021}}
{{Infobox officeholder
| honorific-prefix    = 
| name                = Heather Stefanson
| honorific-suffix    = 
| image               = Premier Heather Stefanson at the Winnipeg Independence Day Celebration 2022 Cropped.png
| alt                 = 
| caption             = Stefanson in 2022
| office3             = [[Minister of Health (Manitoba)|Minister of Health and Seniors Care]]
| term_start3         = January 5, 2021
| term_end3           = August 18, 2021
| premier3            = [[Brian Pallister]]
| predecessor3        = [[Cameron Friesen]]
| successor3          = [[Audrey Gordon]]
| office              = Premier of Manitoba
| order               = 24th
| monarch             = [[Elizabeth II]]<br> [[Charles III]]
| lieutenant_governor = [[Janice Filmon]]<br> [[Anita Neville]]
| term_start          = November 2, 2021
| term_end            = October 18, 2023
| deputy              = [[Rochelle Squires]]<br>Kelvin Goertzen<br>[[Cliff Cullen]]
| predecessor         = [[Kelvin Goertzen]]
| successor           = [[Wab Kinew]]
| office1             = [[Leader of the Opposition (Manitoba)|Leader of the Opposition in Manitoba]]
| term_start1         = October 18, 2023
| term_end1           = January 15, 2024
| predecessor1        = [[Wab Kinew]]
| successor1          = [[Wayne Ewasko]]
| office2             = Leader of the [[Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba]]
| term_start2         = October 30, 2021
| term_end2           = January 15, 2024
| predecessor2        = [[Kelvin Goertzen]] (interim)
| successor2          = [[Wayne Ewasko]] (interim)
| office4             = 7th [[Deputy Premier of Manitoba]]
| term_start4         = May 3, 2016
| term_end4           = January 5, 2021
| premier4            = [[Brian Pallister]]
| predecessor4        = [[Kerri Irvin-Ross]]
| successor4          = [[Kelvin Goertzen]]
| office5             = [[Minister of Families (Manitoba)|Minister of Families]]
| term_start5         = August 1, 2018
| term_end5           = January 5, 2021
| premier5            = [[Brian Pallister]]
| predecessor5        = [[Scott Fielding]]
| successor5          = [[Rochelle Squires]]
| office6             = [[Minister of Justice and Attorney General (Manitoba)|Minister of Justice]]<br>[[Attorney General of Manitoba]]
| term_start6         = May 3, 2016
| term_end6           = August 1, 2018
| premier6            = [[Brian Pallister]]
| predecessor6        = [[Gord Mackintosh]]
| successor6          = [[Cliff Cullen]]
| office7             = Member of the [[Legislative Assembly of Manitoba]] for [[Tuxedo (electoral district)|Tuxedo]]
| predecessor7        = [[Gary Filmon]]
| successor7          = [[Carla Compton]]
| term_start7         = November 21, 2000
| term_end7           = May 6, 2024
| birth_name          = Heather Dorothy Stefanson
| birth_date          = {{Birth date and age|1970|05|11}}
| birth_place         = [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]], Canada
| death_date          = 
| death_place         = 
| nationality         = 
| spouse              = Jason
| party               = [[Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba|Progressive Conservative]]
| relations           = 
| children            = 2
| residence           = [[Old Tuxedo, Winnipeg]]<ref>[https://www.elections.ca/WPAPPS/WPF/EN/CCS/ContributionReport?returnStatus=1&reportOption=5&queryId=cfdec4ac45ef47278bf0eceeaf9f3bd1&sortDirection=asc&sortOrder=0%2C1%2C2&totalRecordFound=71&current200Page=1&total200Pages=1&reportExists=True&displaySorting=True]</ref>
| alma_mater          = [[University of Western Ontario]] ([[Bachelor of Arts|BA]])
| occupation          = 
| profession          = 
| website             = 
}}

'''Heather Dorothy Stefanson''' (born May 11, 1970) is a Canadian former politician who served as the 24th [[premier of Manitoba]] from 2021 to 2023; the first woman in the province's history to hold that role.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Heather D. Stefanson |url=http://www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/people/stefanson_h.shtml |access-date=2023-08-26 |website=www.mhs.mb.ca}}</ref>

She is the former leader of the [[Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba]] and served as [[Leader of the Opposition (Manitoba)|Leader of the Opposition]] of Manitoba after the 2023 Manitoba election. She was the member of the [[Legislative Assembly of Manitoba|Legislative Assembly]] (MLA) for the [[Tuxedo (electoral district)|electoral district of Tuxedo]] until May 6, 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McKendrick |first=Devon |date=2023-10-03 |title=Heather Stefanson stepping down as PC leader |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/heather-stefanson-stepping-down-as-pc-leader-1.6587985 |access-date=2023-10-04 |website=CTV News Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref>

==Early life and career==

Stefanson was born on May 11, 1970, in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]].<ref name="canparlguide2002">{{Cite book|chapter=Stefanson, Heather D., B.A. (Tuxedo)|chapter-url=https://www.encyclopedia.com/international/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/stefanson-heather-d-ba-tuxedo|title=Canadian Parliamentary Guide|title-link=Canadian Parliamentary Guide|year=2002|publisher=[[Gale (publisher)|Gale]]|isbn=0-7876-6048-5|issn=0315-6168|oclc=1148186239|pages=[[iarchive:canadianparliame0000unse x2f2/page/736/mode/1up|736–737]]}}
</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=2021-10-30|title=Heather Stefanson: Facts about Manitoba's new premier, Tory leader|language=en-CA|work=[[Toronto Star]]|agency=[[The Canadian Press]]|url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/2021/10/30/facts-about-manitoba-progressive-conservative-leadership-candidate-heather-stefanson.html|access-date=2021-10-31|issn=0319-0781}}</ref> She was raised in Winnipeg, where she attended [[St. John's-Ravenscourt School]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://highhopescommunications.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Heather-Stefanson-Finding-and-Maintaining-the-Balance.pdf|title=Heather Stefanson: Findingand Maintaining the Balance|work=Neighbours of Tuxedo|date=January 2016|access-date=2020-08-19}}</ref> She received a [[Bachelor of Arts]] in [[political science]] from the [[University of Western Ontario]].<ref>{{Cite news|last=Sanders|first=Carol|date=2021-10-30|title=Stefanson wins PC leadership to become Manitoba's first woman premier|language=en-CA|work=[[Winnipeg Free Press]]|url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/stefanson-wins-pc-leadership-to-become-manitobas-first-woman-premier-575646232.html|access-date=2021-10-31}}</ref>

After receiving her degree, Stefanson worked as a special assistant in the [[Office of the Prime Minister (Canada)|Office of the Prime Minister]] under [[Brian Mulroney]] before returning to Manitoba in 1993 as an assistant to federal [[Minister of Agriculture (Canada)|Agriculture Minister]] [[Charles Mayer (politician)|Charlie Mayer]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Goerzen |first=Matt |date=2021-08-21 |title=Is Stefanson up to the challenge? |url=https://www.brandonsun.com/opinion/editorials/Is-Stefanson-up-to-the-challenge--575143231.html |url-status= |access-date=2021-10-31 |website=[[The Brandon Sun]] |language=en-CA}}</ref><ref name=":2">Campbell, Brian. 2016 January. "[http://highhopescommunications.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Heather-Stefanson-Finding-and-Maintaining-the-Balance.pdf Heather Stefanson: Finding and Maintaining the Balance]." Neighbours of Tuxedo. Retrieved 2023-08-26.</ref>

From 1995 to 2000, Stefanson was a member of the [[University of Manitoba]]'s Young Associates organization.<ref name="canparlguide2002" /> From 1998 to 2000, Stenson volunteered on Premier [[Gary Filmon|Gary Filmon's]] Executive in Tuxedo.<ref name=":2" />

In 1999, Stefanson was suspended for seven months by the Manitoba District Council of the [[Investment Dealers Association of Canada]] for failing to meet educational requirements. Stefanson was found to have made 34 inappropriate trades while she was working as an investment adviser at Wellington West Capital.<ref name="Sanders">{{Cite news |last=Sanders |first=Carol |date=2022-05-13 |title=Stefanson cautioned over campaign expense |language=en-CA |work=Winnipeg Free Press |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/stefanson-cautioned-over-campaign-expense-576497612.html |access-date=2022-05-18}}</ref> In 2003, Wellington West Capital was fined $13,000 for failing to supervise the activities of Stefanson. She had been suspended from acting in the capacity of a registered representative but had issued statements to clients indicating her employment as a registered representative during this suspension.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 31, 2003 |title=IDA fines Wellington West, compliance officer |url=https://www.investmentexecutive.com/news/industry-news/ida-fines-wellington-west-compliance-officer/ |url-status= |access-date=2021-12-08 |website=Investment Executive}}</ref>

==Political career==

Stefanson was first elected to the Manitoba legislature in a [[List of Manitoba by-elections#40th–42nd Legislatures (2011–present)|2000 by-election]], replacing former Progressive Conservative Premier [[Gary Filmon]] in the south Winnipeg riding of [[Tuxedo (electoral district)|Tuxedo]].<ref name=":3">{{cite web|url=http://www.elections.mb.ca/en/Results/by_election_2000_tuxedo.html|title=2000 By-election Tuxedo|work=Elections Manitoba|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111008014232/http://www.elections.mb.ca/en/Results/by_election_2000_tuxedo.html|archive-date=2011-10-08}}</ref> Stefanson was easily re-elected in the [[2003 Manitoba general election|2003 election]], with the NDP improving to a second-place status,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.elections.mb.ca/en/Results/38_division_results/38_tuxedo_summary_results.html|title=Tuxedo — Official Results — 2003 Provincial Election|work=Elections Manitoba|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716065915/http://www.elections.mb.ca/en/Results/38_division_results/38_tuxedo_summary_results.html|archive-date=2011-07-16}}</ref> followed by her re-election in the [[2007 Manitoba general election|2007]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.elections.mb.ca/en/Results/39_division_results/39_tuxedo_summary_results.html|title=Official Results — 39th General Election|work=Elections Manitoba|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009105440/http://www.elections.mb.ca/en/Results/39_division_results/39_tuxedo_summary_results.html|archive-date=2011-10-09}}</ref> [[2011 Manitoba general election|2011]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news2/canada/manitobavotes2011/ridings/055/|title=Tuxedo - Manitoba Votes 2011|access-date=May 17, 2016}}</ref> [[2016 Manitoba general election|2016]],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/souwester/MLAs-in-Fort-Whyte-Tuxedo-and-Fort-Garry-Riverview-head-back-to-Leg-377010431.html|title=MLAs in Fort Whyte, Tuxedo and Fort Garry-Riverview head back to Legislature|work=The Sou'wester|publisher=Winnipeg Free Press|date=April 25, 2016|access-date=2016-05-17}}</ref> and [[2019 Manitoba general election|2019 elections]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gov.mb.ca/legislature/members/info/stefanson.html|title=Legislative Assembly of Manitoba|access-date=2016-05-17}}</ref>

In 2002, she received the [[Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal]] in recognition of her community service.<ref name=":1" />

In 2016, Premier [[Brian Pallister]] named Stefanson [[Deputy Premier of Manitoba|deputy premier]] and the [[Minister of Justice and Attorney General (Manitoba)|Minister of Justice and Attorney General]]. In 2018, she became the [[Minister of Families (Manitoba)|Minister of Families]]<ref>{{Cite news|date=2018-08-01|title=Changes to Health, Finance portfolios as Manitoba government shuffles cabinet|work=[[CBC News]]|agency=[[The Canadian Press]]|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-cabinet-shuffle-august-2018-1.4769768|access-date=2021-10-31}}</ref> in addition to her role as deputy premier. In 2021, she took over the [[Minister of Health (Manitoba)|health portfolio]]; health minister [[Kelvin Goertzen]] became deputy premier.<ref name=":1" />

On 2 November 2021, Stefanson became the first female [[Premier of Manitoba]] following a majority vote of the Progressive Conservative caucus.<ref name=":1" />

=== MLA for Tuxedo ===
Stefanson was first elected to the Manitoba legislature in a [[List of Manitoba by-elections#40th–42nd Legislatures (2011–present)|2000 by-election]], replacing former Progressive Conservative Premier [[Gary Filmon]] in the south Winnipeg riding of [[Tuxedo (electoral district)|Tuxedo]]. Stefanson defeated [[Manitoba Liberal Party|Liberal]] [[Rochelle Zimberg]] by 2,692 votes to 1,586; Iona Starr, representing the governing [[New Democratic Party of Manitoba|New Democratic Party]] (NDP), finished third.<ref name=":3" />

As MLA for Tuxedo, Stefanson has been an advocate for [[Special Olympics Canada|Special Olympics Manitoba]], an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through sport.<ref name="winnipegfreepress_2019-05-06">{{Cite web |first=Heather |last=Stefanson |title=May 2019: Celebrating the Special Olympics |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/souwester/2019/05/06/celebrating-the-special-olympics |access-date=2022-10-29 |website=Our Communities |date=6 May 2019 |language=en-US}}</ref> In 2013, she introduced ''The Special Olympics Awareness Week Act'' in the [[Manitoba Legislative Assembly]], designating the second week of June each year as Special Olympics Awareness Week in Manitoba.<ref name="winnipegfreepress_2019-05-06" /> The Act received unanimous support from the Manitoba Legislative Assembly.<ref name="winnipegfreepress_2019-05-06" /> Stefanson also continues to serve as an honorary board member for Special Olympics Manitoba.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Board of Directors {{!}} Special Olympics Manitoba |url=https://www.specialolympics.mb.ca/who-we-are/board-of-directors |access-date=2022-10-29 |website=www.specialolympics.mb.ca}}</ref>

Stefanson has announced several investments in the [[Assiniboine Park]] located in her Tuxedo constituency. In 2017, when Stefanson was serving as Deputy Premier, she announced $15-million for the Assiniboine Park Conservancy's new Diversity Gardens project, the final phase of the Conservancy's 10-year, $200 million development plan.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Heather |last=Stefanson |title=Mar 2018: Fond farewell for the Conservatory |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/souwester/2018/03/19/fond-farewell-for-the-conservatory |access-date=2022-10-29 |website=Our Communities |date=19 March 2018 |language=en-US}}</ref> As Premier in 2022, Stefanson announced $2 million to support a $15-million capital campaign to build the new Toba Centre for Children & Youth at 710 Assiniboine Park Drive. The Toba Centre provides support to child abuse victims, including forensic interviews.

Stefanson has maintained strong ties with the [[Jews in Canada|Jewish community]] throughout her time as MLA. In 2016, she condemned rising anti-Semitism and praised the Tuxedo Jewish community.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Heather |last=Stefanson |title=Sep 2016: Great work being done by Jewish community |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/souwester/2016/09/12/great-work-being-done-by-jewish-community |access-date=2022-10-29 |website=Our Communities |date=12 September 2016 |language=en-US}}</ref> In 2019, she joined Winnipeg Mayor [[Brian Bowman (politician)|Brian Bowman]] in requesting that the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg disinvite controversial American activist [[Linda Sarsour]] from speaking at an event, citing the speaker's alleged anti-Semitic comments.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-04-27 |title=U.S. activist Linda Sarsour speaks in Winnipeg despite mayor's request |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/u-s-activist-linda-sarsour-speaks-in-winnipeg-despite-mayor-s-request-1.4398443?cache=yes%3FclipId%3D89830 |access-date=2022-10-29 |website=CTVNews |language=en}}</ref>

=== Minister of Justice and Attorney General ===
Stefanson was sworn in as [[Minister of Justice and Attorney General (Manitoba)|Minister of Justice and Attorney General]] in a ceremony at the [[Canadian Museum of Human Rights]] in 2016, becoming only the second woman to hold that position since 1871.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pallister Administration Sworn In |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=37791&amp;posted=2016-05-03 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> She was also appointed Deputy Premier and Keeper of the Great Seal of the province of Manitoba.

==== Criminal justice system reform ====

In response to a 2016 report by the [[Macdonald–Laurier Institute]] that ranked Manitoba's criminal justice system as the worst in the country, Stefanson committed to a full review of the criminal justice system.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justice minister says fixing system will take time |url=https://winnipegsun.com/2016/09/22/justice-minister-says-fixing-system-will-take-time |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=winnipegsun |language=en-CA}}</ref> The review showed that Manitoba had the highest adult incarceration rate among provinces, along with high violent crime and recidivism rates. The review also found significant delay in criminal matters moving through Manitoba's court system. To respond to the review, Stefanson released Manitoba's Criminal Justice System Modernization Strategy in March 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba Government Announces Criminal Justice System Modernization Strategy |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=43302 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The plan included four essential components, including crime prevention; focusing resources on the most serious criminal cases; more effectively using restorative justice; and responsibly reintegrating offenders back into society.<ref>{{Cite news |date=March 9, 2018 |title=Restorative justice at centre of Manitoba's new plan to keep people out of jail |work=CBC Manitoba |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-justice-system-modernization-strategy-1.4568641 |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref> In 2019, Stefanson's successor as Minister of Justice announced that the strategy had resulted in significant reductions in time to disposition in Manitoba's provincial court and [[Court of King's Bench of Manitoba|Court of Queen's Bench]] as well as a reduction in provincial custody counts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba Posts Key Indicators on Criminal Justice System Modernization |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/print,index.html?item=45262 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

In 2017, Stefanson collaborated with the [[Chief Justice of Manitoba|Chief Justices of Manitoba]]'s provincial court, [[Court of Queen's Bench of Manitoba|Court of Queen's Bench]], and [[Manitoba Court of Appeal|Court of Appeal]] to request that the federal government change the ''[[Criminal Code (Canada)|Criminal Code]]'' to eliminate [[preliminary hearing|preliminary inquiries]] in the province.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Fine |first=Sean |date=February 23, 2017 |title=Manitoba, eyeing speedier trials, proposes end to all preliminary inquiries |work=The Globe and Mail |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/manitoba-eyeing-speedier-trials-proposes-end-to-preliminaries/article34126048/ |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref> The letter proposed a four-year pilot project where preliminary inquiries would be eliminated for indictable offences carrying a sentence less than ten years, and replaced with an out-of-court [[Discovery (law)|discovery process]] for offences carrying a sentence over ten years.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Glowacki |first=Laura |date=February 24, 2017 |title=Manitoba looks to get rid of preliminary inquiries to deal with court backlog |work=CBC Manitoba |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-preliminary-hearings-pilot-1.3998883 |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref> The goal of the proposed project was to reduce unreasonable court delays.<ref>{{Cite web |last=chatnewstoday@socastdigital.com |title=Manitoba judges ask federal government to replace preliminary inquiries |url=https://chatnewstoday.ca/2017/02/25/manitoba-judges-ask-federal-government-to-replace-preliminary-inquiries/ |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=CHAT News Today |language=en}}</ref> It responded to the [[Supreme Court of Canada]]'s decision in ''[[R v Jordan (2016)|R v Jordan]]'', which set time limits on criminal proceedings that could result in people accused of serious crimes, including murder, walking free due to unreasonable court delay. The federal government responded to calls for preliminary inquiry reform in 2018 with the introduction and passage of [[An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to other Acts|Bill C-75]]. The Bill restricts preliminary inquiries to only offences carrying a maximum sentence of 14 years or more.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Legislative Summary of Bill C‑75 |url=https://lop.parl.ca/sites/PublicWebsite/default/en_CA/ResearchPublications/LegislativeSummaries/421C75E#a2-%201-2-1 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=lop.parl.ca}}</ref> University of Ottawa law professor Allan Rock estimated the legislation would produce an 87 percent reduction in preliminary inquiries and help reduce court delay significantly.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Rock |first=Allan |date=2018-04-06 |title=Bill C-75 is justice reform that makes sense |language=en-CA |work=The Globe and Mail |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-bill-c-75-is-justice-reform-that-makes-sense/ |access-date=2022-12-06}}</ref> In a statement regarding the federal, provincial and territorial Justice Ministers meeting in April 2017, Stefanson expressed her support for mandatory minimum sentences for certain criminal offences. She stated, "anything less than a prison sentence for certain crimes is unjustifiable in Manitoba's view."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Statement from Justice Minister Heather Stefanson Regarding Justice Ministers Meeting |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=41439 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

In October 2017, Stefanson established a committee of experts in family law to make recommendations on how to make the system more accessible and less adversarial for couples going through separation and divorce.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kusch |first=Larry |date=October 18, 2017 |title=Make family law system user-friendly: province |work=The Winnipeg Free Press |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2017/10/18/province-wants-family-law-system-more-accessible-less-adversarial |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref> In June 2018, Stefanson announced the committee's recommendations, which included establishing a three-year pilot project in Winnipeg to direct Winnipeg-based family matters to non-adversarial mediation outside of court; creating an administrative office to triage and find more appropriate ways to resolve disputes; and expanding information available to Manitobans about family law related issues.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Family Law Modernization Report Recommends Innovative Pilot Project to Improve Outcomes for Children and Families |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=44196 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> In March 2019, Stefanson's successor as Minister of Justice introduced The Family Law Modernization Act based on the findings of the committee. The law included changes that would allow separating couples to resolve child custody, support, and property matters without going to court.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba introduces 'groundbreaking' legislation to speed up family law system - Winnipeg {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/5048846/manitoba-introduces-groundbreaking-legislation-to-speed-up-family-law-system/ |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=CJOB |language=en-US}}</ref> The provincial government eventually launched a Family Resolution Service to resolve matters earlier and outside the tradition court process.The government estimated the new service would save Manitoba families up to $41 million in court and legal fees.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province Launches New Family Resolution Service to Enhance Access to Family Law |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=48505 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

In March 2018, Stefanson introduced legislation reinstating the Queen's Counsel designation for Manitoba lawyers who have served for at least ten years and have demonstrated outstanding practice as a lawyer among other contributions. In October 2018, Stefanson's predecessor issued the first call for nominations for Queen's Counsel appointments. In June 2019, the Minister of Justice made the first Queen's Counsel appointments since the practice ended under the former NDP government in 2001.<ref>{{Cite news |date=June 4, 2019 |title=Province appoints first Queen's counsels since 2001 |work=The Winnipeg Free Press |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2019/06/04/first-15-lawyers-appointed-as-queens-counsel-after-honour-reinstated |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Archived News Releases |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=24883&amp;posted=2001-01-09 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

==== Cannabis legalization ====
To prepare for the planned [[Legalization of cannabis in Canada|federal legalization of cannabis]], Stefanson introduced ''[[Cannabis in Manitoba|The Cannabis Harm Prevention Act]]'' in March 2017. The Act created new cannabis-related driving offences that anticipated the eventual legalization of the drug, including granting police the ability to issue 24-hour driver's license suspensions if they believe a driver is under the influence of a drug or unable to safely operate a motor vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba Introduces Cannabis Harm Prevention Act |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=41158 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> In response to questions about the 2017 "[[420 (cannabis culture)|420]]" protest on the Manitoba Legislature grounds, Stefanson stressed her concerns about the impact of cannabis on young people, saying of the protest "it does disturb me how many young people were out there today."<ref>{{Cite news |date=April 20, 2017 |title=Justice minister disturbed by sight of young pot-smokers at 420, worried for future of pot laws |work=CBC Manitoba |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-marijuana-legalization-stefanson-1.4078998 |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref>

In December 2017, Stefanson introduced ''The Safe and Responsible Retailing of Cannabis Act'', which established the framework for the regulation of cannabis retail sales in Manitoba. The Act established a private retail model, with retail licenses obtained from the newly renamed Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba Introduces Measures to Responsibly Control Retail Sales of Cannabis |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/print,index.html?item=42711 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> It required that all retailers source their cannabis supply from Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries.<ref name="Hoye">{{Cite news |last=Hoye |first=Bryce |date=December 5, 2017 |title=Manitobans will be able to buy pot online, but can't grow at home under new legislation |work=CBC Manitoba |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/legal-age-buy-pot-manitoba-19-1.4433640 |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref> The Act also established 19 as the legal age to purchase cannabis in Manitoba, a decision endorsed by the Manitoba School Boards Association, as it would help keep cannabis out of schools and playgrounds.

Despite federal legislation allowing Canadian adults to grow up to four cannabis plants at home, the ''Safe and Responsible Retailing of Cannabis Act'' prohibited individuals from home cultivation of cannabis.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Israel |first=Solomon |date=December 6, 2017 |title=Home-grown dope? Province says nope: Manitoba unveils new cannabis act |work=The Winnipeg Free Press |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2017/12/05/home-grown-dope-province-says-nope-manitoba-unveils-new-cannabis-act |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref> Manitoba and Quebec are the only provinces to prohibit home cultivation of cannabis.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=Froese |first=Ian |date=May 2, 2022 |title=Court challenge to Manitoba's homegrown cannabis ban argues province going against Ottawa |work=CBC Manitoba |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-home-cannabis-production-court-1.6438828 |access-date=December 6, 2022}}</ref> Stefanson defended the home grow prohibition as a means of keeping cannabis away from children and preventing diversion of supply into the black market.<ref name="Hoye" /> The [[Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police]] had joined Stefanson and other Justice Ministers in calling for a national prohibition of home cultivation in April 2017.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kirkup |first=Kristy |date=2017-04-05 |title=Police urge Liberals away from making it legal to grow pot at home |url=https://www.cp24.com/news/police-urge-liberals-away-from-making-it-legal-to-grow-pot-at-home-1.3356164 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=CP24 |language=en}}</ref> Cannabis advocates have since challenged both the Manitoba and Quebec home cultivation prohibitions in court as unconstitutional.<ref name=":0" />

In March 2018, Stefanson announced ''The Impaired Driving Offences Act'', which updated drug impaired driving provisions to complement pending federal legislation. Included in the Act were new administrative driver's license suspensions for impaired driving. She was joined by the Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living who announced a provincial prohibition on smoking cannabis in outdoor public places.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Legislative Amendments to Address Pending Legalization of Cannabis |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=43403 |access-date=2022-12-06 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

==== Family law reform ====

In October 2017, Stefanson established a committee of experts in family law to make recommendations on how to make the system more accessible and less adversarial for couples going through separation and divorce.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Updates |first=Larry Kusch Posted: Last Modified: {{!}} |date=2017-10-18 |title=Oct 2017: Make family law system user-friendly: province |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2017/10/18/province-wants-family-law-system-more-accessible-less-adversarial |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref> In June 2018, Stefanson announced the committee's recommendations, which included establishing a three-year pilot project in Winnipeg to direct Winnipeg-based family matters to non-adversarial mediation outside of court; creating an administrative office to triage and find more appropriate ways to resolve disputes; and expanding information available to Manitobans about family law related issues.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Family Law Modernization Report Recommends Innovative Pilot Project to Improve Outcomes for Children and Families |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=44196 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

In March 2019, Stefanson's successor as Minister of Justice introduced The Family Law Modernization Act based on the findings of the committee.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Modernizes Family Law to Improve Services and Outcomes for Families |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=45120 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The law included changes that would allow separating couples to resolve child custody, support, and property matters without going to court.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba introduces 'groundbreaking' legislation to speed up family law system - Winnipeg {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/5048846/manitoba-introduces-groundbreaking-legislation-to-speed-up-family-law-system/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=CJOB |language=en-US}}</ref> The provincial government eventually launched a Family Resolution Service to resolve matters earlier and outside the traditional court process.<ref name="news.gov.mb.ca">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Province Launches New Family Resolution Service to Enhance Access to Family Law |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=48505 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The government estimated the new service would save Manitoba families up to $41 million in court and legal fees.<ref name="news.gov.mb.ca"/>

==== Queen's Counsel Act ====

In March 2018, Stefanson introduced legislation reinstating the Queen's Counsel designation for Manitoba lawyers who have served for at least 10 years and have demonstrated outstanding practice as a lawyer among other contributions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} New Legislation Would Reinstate Queen's Counsel in Manitoba |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=43398 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> In October 2018, Stefanson's predecessor issued the first call for nominations for Queen's Counsel appointments.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |date=2019-06-04 |title=Jun 2019: Province appoints first Queen's counsels since 2001 |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2019/06/04/first-15-lawyers-appointed-as-queens-counsel-after-honour-reinstated |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref> In June 2019, the Minister of Justice made the first Queen's Counsel appointments since the practice ended under the former NDP government in 2001.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} Archived News Releases |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=24883&posted=2001-01-09 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> 

=== Minister of Families ===
Stefanson was sworn in as Minister of Families in a ceremony at the Manitoba Legislature on August 1, 2018.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Premier Announces Changes to Manitoba Executive Council |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=44535&posted=2018-08-01 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> She also retained her position as Deputy Premier.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>

==== Child and family services ====

In September 2018, Stefanson reported the first reduction in the number of children in Child and Family Services (CFS) care in 15 years, with a nine percent decrease in child apprehensions and an eight percent increase in family reunifications.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Province Reports Reduction in the Number of Children in Care |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=44621 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> Stefanson credited the government's emphasis on preventative measures as helping at-risk families avoid contact with the child welfare system. The number of children in CFS care decreased each year Stefanson was Minister of Families.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba Families Annual Report 2017 – 2018 |url=https://www.gov.mb.ca/fs/about/pubs/fsar_2017-18.pdf}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba Families Annual Report 2018 – 2019 |url=https://www.gov.mb.ca/fs/about/pubs/fsar_2018-2019.pdf}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba Families Annual Report 2019 – 2020 |url=https://www.gov.mb.ca/fs/about/pubs/fsar_2019-2020.pdf}}</ref>

Stefanson made several changes to Manitoba's CFS system meant to reduce the number of children in care. In February 2019, she announced a new block funding or "single envelope" funding model for CFS authorities, which are responsible for child welfare agencies in various regions of the province.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Feb 11, 2019 |title=Manitoba plans block funding of child welfare agencies, scrapping per-child payments |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/child-welfare-funding-1.5014204}}</ref>  The new model ended the per-child funding model where CFS agencies would receive funding based on the number of children in care and the number of days they are in care, which the government said incentivized child apprehensions.

In January 2020, Stefanson announced that the province would end the controversial practice of birth alerts, where CFS agencies warn hospitals about the history of a pregnant mother considered "high risk."<ref name="Bergen">{{Cite news |last=Bergen |first=Rachel |date=Jan 31, 2020 |title=Manitoba to end birth alerts system that sometimes leads to babies being taken |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/birth-alerts-ending-1.5447296}}</ref> Indigenous leadership had called for an end to the practice.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba to End Use of Birth Alerts |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=46808 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Grand Chief Garrison Settee expressed excitement at the news, telling media "we applaud the province for listening to us."<ref name="Bergen"/> In June 2020, Stefanson announced the official end of birth alerts along with an investment of $400,000 to double the capacity of the Mothering Project, a program to support vulnerable mothers and their children operated by Mount Carmel Clinic.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Unger |first=Danton |date=June 23, 2020 |title=Manitoba to end controversial practice of birth alerts |work=CTV News Winnipeg |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/manitoba-to-end-controversial-practice-of-birth-alerts-1.4996590}}</ref> Stefanson had previously invested $400,000 to launch Granny's House, a two-story home in North Point Douglas that provides short-term respite for parents otherwise at-risk of CFS contact.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |first=Carol Sanders |date=2020-01-29 |title=Jan 2020: Granny's House cares for kids of at-risk parents |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2020/01/29/grannys-house-cares-for-kids-of-at-risk-parents |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref>

==== Housing ====

In June 2019, Stefanson signed onto the National Housing Strategy with the federal government.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Governments of Canada and Manitoba Sign 10-year Housing Agreement |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=45386 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The 10-year agreement with the federal government promised to invest almost $450.8 million to expand and repair social and community housing in the province.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> The strategy was cost shared by both levels of government, with Manitoba contributing $225.4 million to the agreement.<ref name="ReferenceB"/>

In January 2020, Stefanson released ''Shared Priorities – Sustainable Progress: A 12-Month Action Plan for Manitoba Families''.<ref name="ReferenceC">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Province Shares 12-Month Strategy for Transforming, Improving Family Services |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=46721 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The action plan included a commitment to increase private and community-based delivery of social housing while repairing existing housing stock.<ref name="ReferenceC"/> Housing advocates criticised the plan as a cost cutting measure.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Pursaga |first=Joyanne |date=Jan 17, 2020 |title=Manitoba looking for private sector housing projects |work=Winnipeg Sun |url=https://winnipegsun.com/news/news-news/manitoba-looking-for-private-section-housing-projects}}</ref> In July 2020, Stefanson announced a $31 million investment in repairs to Manitoba Housing properties, estimated to make over 800 otherwise vacant units ready for new tenants.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province to make $31M in improvements to Manitoba Housing properties - Winnipeg {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7211019/province-improvements-manitoba-housing/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref>

Stefanson announced several home ownership programs throughout her time as Minister of Families. In August 2020, she announced a $3 million for Habitat for Humanity to support its home building program over three years.<ref>{{Cite news |last=King |first=Kevin |date=Aug 13, 2020 |title=Gov't funding pours foundation for affordable housing in Manitoba |work=Winnipeg Sun |url=https://winnipegsun.com/news/news-news/govt-funding-pours-foundation-for-affordable-housing-in-manitoba}}</ref> She later announced $2 million to provide down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers and help build houses for First Nations families through a partnership between the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and the Manitoba Real Estate Association.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Governments Invest $2 Million to Support Home Ownership in Manitoba |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/?archive=&item=49336 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

==== COVID-19 pandemic response ====

Stefanson was Minister of Families during most of the first year of the global COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic required significant changes to the delivery of social services provided by her department, including childcare, CFS, homelessness, and disability services.

The Manitoba government announced the closure of childcare centres on March 17, 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Petz |first=Sarah |date=Mar 17, 2020 |title=Daycares, preschools to close after Friday in response to coronavirus, Manitoba premier says |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/brian-pallister-covid-19-measures-1.5500063}}</ref> Two days later, Stefanson announced $27.6 million in support to help childcare centres serve the children of frontline workers, including an $18 million grant program administered by the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and Manitoba Chambers of Commerce to help early childhood educators offer childcare services at home or in the community.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Implementing $27.6-Million Plan to Support Child Care for Essential Workers |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/?archive=&item=47138 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> In August 2020, Stefanson announced the government would repurpose some of the funds as part of a $22 million investment intended to expand choices in childcare.<ref>{{Cite news |date=Aug 26, 2020 |title=Province to spend $22M to create more child-care spots |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/child-care-funding-manitoba-1.5701192}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Provincial Investments Support Choice in Child Care for Manitoba Families |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/?archive=&item=49114 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

For children in the Manitoba CFS system, Stefanson extended supports and services to all young adults who would otherwise age out of the system during the pandemic.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba extends supports for CFS wards aging out of care during coronavirus pandemic - Winnipeg {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/6797463/manitoba-supports-cfs-wards-coronavirus/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref> Stefanson also announced a partnership with telecommunications firm TELUS to support children in CFS, with the donating 120 tablets with data plans to the province.<ref name="ReferenceD">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Partners With TELUS to Keep Children in Care Connected with Family, School Supports |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=47666 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> Emergency placement shelters operated by Winnipeg Child and Family Services received the majority of the tablets, helping children reconnect with family, friends, teachers, and other supports.<ref name="ReferenceD"/>

To reduce the spread of COVID-19 among Manitoba's homelessness population, Stefanson announced $1.2 million to add 140 shelter beds by repurposing a vacant Manitoba Housing building and expanding capacity at the Salvation Army and [[Siloam Mission]] shelters.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Stranger |first=Darrell |date=Apr 15, 2020 |title=Winnipeg finding options to help homeless population through Covid-19 |work=APTN News |url=https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/winnipeg-finding-options-to-help-homeless-population-through-covid-19}}</ref> She extended funding for homeless shelters again in June<ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |first=Nadya Pankiw |date=2020-06-26 |title=Jun 2020: Province responds to plight of homeless |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2020/06/26/province-responds-to-plight-of-homeless |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref> and September,<ref name="ReferenceE">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Province Invests $1.5 Million to Support Homeless Shelters as Part of COVID-19 Response |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=49230 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> including by expanding available space at the Main Street Project shelter in Winnipeg.<ref name="ReferenceE"/>

To help low-income Manitobans with disabilities, Stefanson joined Premier Brian Pallister to announce $4.6 million for the Disability Economic Support Program.<ref name="ReferenceF">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Invests $4.6 Million to Support Low-Income Manitobans with Disabilities |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=48318&posted=2020-05-26 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The program provided a $200 one-time cheque to 23,000 Manitobans receiving Employment and Income Assistance benefits under the disability category.<ref name="ReferenceF"/> Stefanson also announced measures to improve staffing in disability services agencies, including $6 million to help with overtime costs, replacement staff, and sick leave as part of a broader $10 million Pandemic Staffing Support Benefit.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} New $10-Million Pandemic Staffing Support Benefit to Support Staffing in Disability Services, Child Care and Child Welfare |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=49862&posted=2020-11-18 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> She later announced a one-time $5 wage top up for workers in the disability services and other critical frontline positions as part of the $35 million Caregiver Wage Support Program.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Recognizes Front-Line Caregivers with New $35-Million Program |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=49908 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> Stefanson also announced a partnership with Manitoba Possible and Red River College to increase staffing in disability services agencies during the pandemic.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province launches new training and recruitment initiatives to support disability services sector |url=https://www.rrc.ca/news/2020/11/30/province-launches-new-training-and-recruitment-initiatives-to-support-disability-services-sector/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=News |language=en-CA}}</ref>

In June 2020, Stefanson announced $2.5 million for a Home Nutrition and Learning Program pilot project.<ref>{{Cite news |date=Jun 15, 2020 |title=Manitoba launches $2.5M home nutrition pilot program |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-home-nutrition-learning-pilot-program-1.5612518}}</ref> The province worked with community organizations to 2,500 families with packages of healthy foods, including recipes and learning activities developed by the Child Nutrition Council of Manitoba.

=== Minister of Health and Seniors Care ===
Stefanson was sworn in as Minister of Health and Seniors Care in a ceremony at the Manitoba Legislature on January 5, 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Protecting Vulnerable Manitobans and Creating Job Opportunities Focus of New Cabinet and Departments |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=50157 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> She did not retain the Deputy Premier role, which the premier awarded to Kelvin Goertzen, the Minister of Legislative and Public Affairs. Stefanson identified the COVID-19 vaccine rollout as a significant priority in interviews following her appointment as Minister of Health and Seniors Care.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kives |first=Bartley |date=Jan 28, 2021 |title=New health minister pledges to learn from Manitoba's earlier pandemic mistakes |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-health-minister-new-stefanson-1.5891056}}</ref>

==== Dr. Lynn Stevenson Long-Term Care Review ====

In February 2021, Stefanson announced that the Manitoba government would implement all recommendations of Dr. Lynn Stevenson's review of long-term care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Government Commits to Implementing All Recommendations in Maples Long Term Care Home Review |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=50579 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The review examined the COVID-19 outbreak at the Maples Long Term Care facility that resulted in 56 deaths. As Premier, Stefanson later announced $15 million to implement the Stevenson review recommendations, which included enhancing infection prevention and control, hiring 200 full-time housekeeping staff, and improving information technology to better support patient care.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Government Invests Over $15 Million to Strengthen Long-Term Care System |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=54066 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

==== Budget 2021 investments ====

In April 2021, Stefanson joined Minister of Finance Scott Fielding to announce $1.2 billion for the COVID-19 pandemic response.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Aldrich |first=Josh |date=6 April 2021 |title=Manitoba plans $1.2 billion in COVID-19 spending in next year |work=Winnipeg Sun |url=https://winnipegsun.com/news/news-news/manitoba-plans-1-2-billion-in-covid-19-spending-in-next-year}}</ref> The funding included $350 million for additional health system costs to prepare for a third wave of COVID-19 and $100 million for a vaccine program across the province.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Province Commits $1.2 Billion for COVID-19 Response in Budget 2021 |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=51079 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> Moreover, $300 million was set aside as COVID-19 contingency for unbudgeted expenses. The budget also included $50 million to address the backlog in surgeries and diagnostic tests that had accumulated during the pandemic.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-12 |title=Manitoba budget focuses on COVID-19 recovery, continues aggressive push to cut deficit |url=https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/manitoba-budget-focuses-covid-19-200248799.html |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Yahoo Sports |language=en-CA}}</ref>

Budget 2021 included $6.98 billion for health care, an increase of $156 million from the previous year. New health care investments included $23 million for cancer treatments, $2.7 million to expand dialysis treatment, and $9.3 million to expand personal care homes in the municipalities of Steinbach and Carman.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Budget 2021; Protecting Manitobans, Advancing Manitoba |pages=3 |url=https://gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/budget2021/budget-in-brief2021.pdf}}</ref>

==== COVID-19 third wave ====

During Manitoba's third-wave of COVID-19, Stefanson claimed on May 18, 2021, that Manitoba's health system could handle an additional 50 patients in the ICU for a total of 170. However, later that day, she announced ICU beds were at capacity and two patients had been sent to Thunder Bay for treatment. Shared Health had been aware that the healthcare system was unable to handle 170 patients, and on May 7, chief nursing officer Lanette Siragusa called a previous exercise showing capacity at 173 ICU beds a "paper exercise" that "did not reflect the reality of Manitoba's capacity."

On May 13, Shared Health CEO Adam Topp attended a meeting regarding Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and ICU capacity. However, Stefanson claims she was not aware of this meeting, and didn't know about the out-of-province transfer until after the decision was made. In total, Manitoba transferred 57 COVID-19 patients out of the province during the third wave, 12 of whom died while being treated out of province.

One of the individuals who died was 31-year-old Krystal Mousseau, a mother of two from Ebb and Flow First Nation in Manitoba.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McKendrick |first=Devon |date=2021-05-27 |title=Manitoba ICU patient who died before transfer to Ontario identified |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/manitoba-icu-patient-who-died-before-transfer-to-ontario-identified-1.5445909 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref> Her death prompted criticism from Wab Kinew, the Leader of the Opposition, who questioned whether Mousseau had been appropriately cleared for medical transport.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Froese |first=Ian |date=May 27, 2021 |title=Manitoba investigating failed attempt at airlifting COVID-19 patient who died |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-investigating-failed-airlifting-attempt-covid-19-patient-consent-1.6042336}}</ref> Dr. John Younes, Manitoba's Chief Medical Examiner, declined to call an inquest into the death.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |last=Updates |first=Katie May Posted: Last Modified: {{!}} |date=2022-03-15 |title=Mar 2022: No inquest in case of woman who died in pandemic airlift attempt |url=https://www.brandonsun.com/local/2022/03/15/no-inquest-in-case-of-woman-who-died-in-pandemic-airlift-attempt |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Brandon Sun |language=en-US}}</ref> On March 1, 2021, Younes wrote to Kinew stating that a "carefully considered medical decision was made to move patients out of province to make room for incoming patients who would otherwise not survive."<ref name=":8"/> He added that it is not the role of an inquest to "second guess complex medical decisions, particularly those made under horrific circumstances."<ref name=":8"/> Kinew later requested that the Premier to call an inquiry into the death.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Petz |first=Sarah |date=Mar 16, 2022 |title=Manitoba NDP asks premier to call inquiry into woman's death during COVID-19 hospital transfer |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/inquiry-krystal-mousseau-death-1.6387489}}</ref>

==== Vaccine rollout ====

In January 2021, Stefanson announced a four-stage immunization plan that outlined a strategy to expand Manitoba's immunization campaign to priority groups and then to all Manitobans based on age.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Province Highlights Plans to Protect Vulnerable Manitobans with Comprehensive Vaccine Prioritization List |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=50379 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The plan was based on guidelines developed by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization and was informed by 27 physicians on Manitoba's vaccine medical advisory table. Stefanson was criticised for a slow rollout of the vaccine, which she attributed to a lack of supply from the federal government.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Froese |first=Ian |date=April 6, 2021 |title=Manitoba's health minister is satisfied with pace of COVID-19 vaccine rollout despite supply problems |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-health-minister-satisfied-vaccine-rollout-1.5976658}}</ref> On May 5, 2021, Stefanson announced that the province had administered 500,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.<ref name="ReferenceG">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba has Administered More Than 500,000 Doses to Protect Against COVID-19 |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=51217 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> Ten days later, she reported that 50 percent of all Manitoba adults had received at least one dose of the vaccine.<ref name="ReferenceG"/>

The #ProtectMB COVID-19 Immunization Plan included setting up vaccine clinics in several areas, including supersites, focussed immunization teams, and pop-up community clinics.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Friesen |first=Cameron |date=April 12, 2022 |title=The 2022 Manitoba Budget Address |pages=5 |url=https://manitoba.ca/asset_library/en/budget2022/speech-budget2022.pdf}}</ref> By April 2022, 1.1 million Manitobans were fully vaccinated representing 82 per cent of those eligible.

==== Medical leave ====

On May 21, 2021, the province announced Stefanson would be taking a medical leave to undergo a necessary procedure recommended by her physician.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba health minister taking medical leave - Winnipeg {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7885418/manitoba-health-minister-taking-medical-leave/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref> Kelvin Goertzen acted as interim Health Minister in her absence. Stefanson resumed her duties virtually in late June and gave her first in-person interview with media on July 8, 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |first=Carol Sanders |date=2021-07-08 |title=Jul 2021: Health minister returns after recuperation |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2021/07/08/health-minister-returns-after-recuperation |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref> She did not provide details as to the nature of her medical procedure. She later told media she had undergone a hysterectomy on the recommendation of her doctor after putting it off for more than a year.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Updates |first=Carol Sanders Posted: Last Modified: {{!}} |date=2021-09-02 |title=Sep 2021: Stefanson ready for run at leadership after operation |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2021/09/02/i-feel-like-ive-been-given-a-new-life |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref>

== 2021 Manitoba Progressive Conservative leadership election==
After Pallister announced his impending retirement, Stefanson announced that she would run in the [[2021 Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba leadership election]].<ref name="stefanson">{{cite web |last=Bergen |first=Rachel |date=August 18, 2021 |title=Heather Stefanson will run for leadership of Manitoba's Progressive Conservative Party |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/heather-stefanson-progressive-conservative-party-leader-1.6145165 |access-date=September 1, 2021 |work=CBC News}}</ref> She was the first PC party member to announce their candidacy in the election, and had the support of two thirds of the PC caucus.<ref name="CBC 1">{{cite web |date=2021-08-25 |title=Manitoba PCs to choose new leader - and next premier - on Oct. 30 - CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/pc-leadership-race-rules-1.6151044 |access-date=2021-09-01 |website=CBC News}}</ref> Stefanson ran prominently on a pledge to scrap Bill 64, Pallister's unpopular education reform legislation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Stefanson Says Bill 64 Has To Go |url=https://www.pembinavalleyonline.com/articles/stefanson-says-bill-64-has-to-go |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=PembinaValleyOnline}}</ref>

Pallister resigned on September 1, and [[Kelvin Goertzen]] took over as premier pending the election of his successor. Stefanson garnered strong support from Manitoba's business community.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |first=Dylan Robertson |date=2021-09-24 |title=Sep 2021: Business leaders flex muscle, endorse Stefanson in Tory race |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2021/09/24/business-leaders-flex-muscle-endorse-stefanson-in-tory-race |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref> On September 24, 2021, her campaign published an endorsement letter signed by seven prominent businesspeople who expressed concerns about the anti-vaccine sentiments of her opponent, [[Shelly Glover]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |first=Dylan Robertson |date=2021-09-24 |title=Sep 2021: Business leaders flex muscle, endorse Stefanson in Tory race |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2021/09/24/business-leaders-flex-muscle-endorse-stefanson-in-tory-race |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref>

Stefanson narrowly won the race with 363 votes over her opponent.<ref name="froese20211030">{{Cite news|last=Froese|first=Ian|date=2021-10-30|title=Heather Stefanson chosen as Manitoba's 1st female premier by a slim margin|work=[[CBC News]]|url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-female-premier-heather-stefanson-shelly-glover-1.6230152|access-date=2021-10-31}}</ref> On March 21, Stefanson released her leadership campaign financials revealing that she raised $576,625 in campaign donations,<ref>{{Cite web |title=CityNews |url=https://winnipeg.citynews.ca/2022/03/21/heather-stefansons-leadership-campaign-reports-561k-in-expenses-slight-surplus/ |access-date=2022-03-23 |website=winnipeg.citynews.ca|date=21 March 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Frose |first=Ian |date=2022-03-21 |title=Heather Stefanson's campaign donor list a who's who of Winnipeg's business elite |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/heather-stefanson-leadership-campaign-donors-business-1.6392594 |access-date=2022-03-23}}</ref> $360,000 of that money came from 120 individuals who donated the maximum amount of $3,000.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sanders |first=Carol |date=2022-03-21 |title=Stefanson party leadership campaign powered by big-name donors |language=en-CA |work=Winnipeg Free Press |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/stefanson-party-leadership-campaign-powered-by-big-name-donors-576317492.html |access-date=2022-03-23}}</ref> Stefanson received donations from several prominent businesspeople, including Winnipeg Jets executive chairman Mark Chipman, Richardson Financial Group CEO Sandy Riley, and Buhler Industries founder John Buhler.

On May 14, 2022, Stefanson was cautioned for having illegally spent $1,800 in campaign funds prior to the electoral period beginning.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Stefanson gets cautioned for breaking election financing laws |url=https://winnipegsun.com/news/news-news/stefanson-gets-cautioned-for-breaking-election-financing-laws |access-date=2022-05-18 |website=winnipegsun |language=en-CA}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-18 |title=Premier Heather Stefanson breached election finance rule in bid for PC leadership: commissioner |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/heather-stefanson-leadershi-campaign-election-financing-1.6453313 |access-date=2022-05-18 |website=CBC News}}</ref>

== Premier of Manitoba ==
Stefanson was sworn in as Manitoba's first female premier on November 2, 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Malone|first=Kelly|date=November 2, 2021|title=Progressive Conservative Leader Heather Stefanson sworn in as Manitoba's new premier|url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/heather-stefanson-sworn-in-as-new-premier-of-manitoba-1.5648187|access-date=November 2, 2021|website=CTV News}}</ref> Her swearing-in speech outlined her top priorities as advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, addressing surgical and diagnostic backlogs, rebuilding the economy, improving education, and focusing on labour shortages in the economy.<ref name="ReferenceH">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Stefanson Sworn in as 24th Premier of Manitoba |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=52704 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> She also promised to create a task force to tackle the backlog in surgeries and diagnostic tests.<ref name="ReferenceH"/>

Stefanson is credited with dramatically improving relationships with other levels of government, which federal officials and Winnipeg Mayor [[Brian Bowman (politician)|Brian Bowman]] have remarked to media.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Robertson |first=Dylan |title=Stefanson shifts gears in effort to leave Pallister behind |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2022/08/08/stefanson-shifts-gears-in-effort-to-leave-pallister-behind |access-date=2022-08-25 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |date=8 August 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> This comes as Stefanson has continued to work with other [[First minister|First Minister]]'s to pressure the federal government to restore its share of the [[Canada Health Transfer]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Statement from Premier Heather Stefanson on Meeting with Canada's Premiers |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=55458&posted=2022-07-12 |access-date=2022-08-25 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-07-15 |title=Premiers facing off with feds on Arctic, health-care spending - Yukon News |url=https://www.yukon-news.com/news/premiers-facing-off-with-feds-on-arctic-health-care-spending/ |access-date=2022-08-25 |website=www.yukon-news.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== 2021 Throne Speech and cabinet shuffle ===

Following Stefanson's swearing in as Premier, she announced her intention to begin a new legislative session with a Speech from the Throne on November 23, 2021.<ref name="ReferenceI">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Premier Stefanson's Agenda to be Unveiled in Speech from the Throne |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=52707 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> She also announced a new senior leadership team, including a new Chief of Staff.<ref name="ReferenceI"/>

Lieutenant-Governor Janice Filmon read the Speech from the Throne, which was branded as Manitoba's "Path to Progressing Together."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} Speech from the Throne |url=https://www.gov.mb.ca/thronespeech/thronespeech-2021.html |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The Speech outlined Stefanson's vision for a "strong economic and social recovery, with a focus on the health and wellbeing of all Manitobans."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Premier Heather Stefanson Unveils New 'Path to Progressing Together' Agenda in Speech from the Throne |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=52760 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> Loren Remillard, president and CEO of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce, praised the speech and said that it demonstrated that Stefanson's priorities were aligned with those of the business community.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Snell |first=James |date=Nov 23, 2021 |title=Good balance struck between public and economic health in throne speech: Winnipeg Chamber head |work=Winnipeg Sun |url=https://winnipegsun.com/news/news-news/good-balance-struck-between-public-and-economic-health-in-throne-speech-winnipeg-chamber-head}}</ref> Remillard praised Stefanson again when she delivered the annual State of the Province address just over a week later.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Sanders |first1=Carol |last2=Posted |first2=Danielle Da Silva |date=2021-12-02 |title=Dec 2021: Biz relieved with Stefanson's tone |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2021/12/02/reconciliation-health-care-priorities-in-stefansons-state-of-the-province-address |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref>

Stefanson shuffled her cabinet on January 18, 2022.<ref name="ReferenceJ">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Premier Stefanson Announces Changes to Provincial Cabinet, Expands Portfolios to Focus on Priorities of Manitobans |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=53197 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The shuffle added three new MLAs to prominent cabinet positions.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ChrisD.ca |date=2022-01-18 |title=Manitoba Cabinet Shuffle Promotes Four to Inner Circle |url=https://www.chrisd.ca/2022/01/18/manitoba-cabinet-shuffle-premier-heather-stefanson/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=ChrisD.ca - Winnipeg News |language=en-CA}}</ref> It also split the health care portfolio into three positions – the Minister of Health, the Minister of Mental Health and Community Wellness, and the Minister of Seniors and Long-term Care.<ref name="ReferenceJ"/> She also appointed a Minister of Labour, a move endorsed by the Manitoba Federation of Labour as "long past due."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-18 |title=Manitoba cabinet shuffle reframes health portfolio, brings back former Pallister cabinet member |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/manitoba-cabinet-shuffle-reframes-health-portfolio-brings-back-former-pallister-cabinet-member-1.5744467 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref> University of Manitoba political studies professor Royce Koop praised the shuffle as sound political strategy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Updates |first=Royce Koop Posted: Last Modified: {{!}} |date=2022-01-21 |title=Jan 2022: Opinion: Strategy apparent in Stefanson's shuffle |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/analysis/2022/01/21/strategy-apparent-in-stefansons-shuffle |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref>

Stefanson established a new Economic Development Board of Cabinet on February 22, 2022, to co-ordinate economic growth and job creation initiatives in Manitoba.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Province Prioritizes Economic Recovery and Growth to Address Economic Setbacks Caused By Covid-19 Pandemic |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=53498 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

=== COVID-19 pandemic ===

Stefanson acted in response to the COVID-19 Omicron variant, only after annual Christmas celebrations.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |first=Editorial |date=2022-01-05 |title=Jan 2022: Opinion: Dangerous gambles seldom end well |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/editorials/2022/01/05/dangerous-gambles-seldom-end-well |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref> Stefanson announced public health orders to combat the Omicron variant on December 27, 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Omicron Variant Spreading in Manitoba, Public Health Orders Updated |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=53078 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> On January 12, 2022, Stefanson responded to questions about making public health orders more stringent by saying that "we must all learn to live with this virus; there must be a balance."<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Robertson |first1=Dylan |last2=Posted |first2=Carol Sanders |date=2022-01-12 |title=Jan 2022: 'It's up to Manitobans to look after themselves': premier |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2022/01/12/everyone-will-likely-be-exposed-to-the-virus-manitobans-warned |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref>

On February 2, 2022, she announced the first phase in a plan to loosen public health restrictions <ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} New Public Health Orders Set Out First Phase in Manitoba's Plan to Relax Restrictions |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/?item=53257 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> and later announced a date when all public health orders would end in Manitoba.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-11 |title=Manitoba ending all COVID-19 restrictions by March 15 |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/manitoba-ending-all-covid-19-restrictions-by-march-15-1.5777396 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref> Manitoba ended all public health orders on March 15, 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Final Public Health Orders in Manitoba to be Lifted Tomorrow |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=53777 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

Stefanson required her cabinet and caucus to be vaccinated against COVID-19, imposing a deadline for them to meet immunization requirements.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-12-01 |title=Unvaccinated caucus, cabinet members to be removed if not immunized by Dec. 15: Manitoba Premier |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/unvaccinated-caucus-cabinet-members-to-be-removed-if-not-immunized-by-dec-15-manitoba-premier-1.5689539 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref> She later removed Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler from cabinet due his refusal to disclose his vaccination status, a decision she characterized as inconsistent with the government's efforts to promote vaccination.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-05 |title=Manitoba politician out of cabinet over messaging on vaccines, premier says |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/manitoba-politician-out-of-cabinet-over-messaging-on-vaccines-premier-says-1.5728408 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref> Stefanson later removed Tory MLA Josh Guenter from his role as Legislative Assistant to the Minister of Health for his continued disagreement with the government over COVID-19 vaccine mandates.<ref>{{Cite news |date=Jan 31, 2022 |title=Tory MLA pulled from role for not supporting COVID-19 vaccine mandates |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/josh-guenter-mla-borderlands-covid-19-vaccine-mandate-trucker-convoy-1.6334431}}</ref>

Stefanson's Minister of Health announced the establishment of a Diagnostic and Surgical Recovery Task Force on December 8, 2021, to address the backlogs created by the COVID-19 pandemic response.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Task Force Established To Address Diagnostic And Surgical Backlogs |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=52823 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref>

=== 2022 budget ===

Stefanson's Minister of Finance tabled the 2022 Manitoba Budget on April 12, 2022.<ref name="ReferenceK">{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Government Presents Budget 2022: Recover Together |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/?item=54178 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The Budget, which was branded Recover Together, focused on five priorities – strengthening health care, making life more affordable, building the economy, investing in communities, and protecting the environment.

The 2022 Budget increased the Education Property Tax Rebate to 37.5 per cent.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Friesen |first=Cameron |date=April 12, 2022 |title=The 2022 Manitoba Budget Address |pages=11 |url=https://manitoba.ca/asset_library/en/budget2022/speech-budget2022.pdf}}</ref> The tax cut was projected to save Manitobans $350 million in 2022.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Froese |first=Ian |date=May 19, 2022 |title=Manitoba pushes ahead on education tax rebate, despite opposition to payouts for commercial property owners |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-education-tax-relief-passes-despite-opposition-1.6460138}}</ref> The Budget also promised to increase the rebate again in 2023, saving the average homeowner $1,355 over two years.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Budget 2022 In Brief |pages=4 |url=https://manitoba.ca/asset_library/en/budget2022/budget-in-brief2022.pdf}}</ref> The 2022 Budget Speech stated that cumulative tax changes since the Progressive Conservatives formed government in 2016 put $2,400 "back in the pockets" of the average Manitoban.

The 2022 Budget included $50 million for a new Venture Capital Fund to assist Manitoba companies with start-up costs.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Friesen |first=Cameron |date=April 12, 2022 |title=The 2022 Manitoba Budget Address |pages=19 |url=https://manitoba.ca/asset_library/en/budget2022/speech-budget2022.pdf}}</ref> The measure was praised by prominent members of the province's business community, including representatives from the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and the Business Council of Manitoba.<ref>{{Cite news |date=April 29, 2022 |title=New venture capital fund in Manitoba to be more independent from government |work=The Canadian Press |url=https://winnipeg.citynews.ca/2022/04/29/new-venture-capital-fund-in-manitoba-to-be-more-independent-from-government/}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |first=Martin Cash |date=2022-04-30 |title=Apr 2022: Manitoba ready for bold, new ventures |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/business/2022/04/30/manitoba-ready-for-bold-new-ventures |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref>

The 2022 Budget included $110 million for the Diagnostic and Surgical Recovery Task Force <ref name="ReferenceK"/> and $32 million to improve long-term care for seniors.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Friesen |first=Cameron |date=April 12, 2022 |title=The 2022 Manitoba Budget Address |pages=9 |url=https://manitoba.ca/asset_library/en/budget2022/speech-budget2022.pdf}}</ref> The overall health care budget was $7.2 billion, the largest health care investment in the province's history at the time.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Friesen |first=Cameron |date=April 12, 2022 |title=The 2022 Manitoba Budget Address |pages=6 |url=https://manitoba.ca/asset_library/en/budget2022/speech-budget2022.pdf}}</ref>

=== Affordability measures ===

On August 31, 2022, Stefanson announced a Family Affordability Package that included $87 million in measures to offset the rising cost of living for Manitobans.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Province of Manitoba {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Manitoba Families Most in Need to Benefit from $87-Million 'Family Affordability Package' |url=https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=56181 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Province of Manitoba |language=en}}</ref> The package included an announcement that Manitoba families with children and a household income of less than $175,000 would receive a benefit cheque of $250 for their first child and $200 for each subsequent child, helping an estimated 145,000 families. Moreover, low-income seniors with less than $40,000 in family income who claimed an Education Property Tax Credit in 2021 would receive a $300 cheque to help with rising costs.

As part of the Family Affordability Package, Stefanson also announced the first increase in the basic needs rate for Employment and Income Assistance clients in 20 years, providing EIA general assistance clients without dependent children an extra $50 per month. The announcement was praised by the CEO of Manitoba Harvest, a large food bank in the province.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bernhardt |first=Darren |date=August 31, 2022 |title=Manitoba government dishes out dollars 'to help families make ends meet' |work=CBC News Manitoba |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-family-affordability-package-cheques-1.6568070}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=About Us {{!}} Food Bank Network |url=https://www.harvestmanitoba.ca/about-us/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Harvest Manitoba |date=10 November 2020 |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Criticism ===

Over her premiership, polling data has consistently suggested Stefanson to be the most unpopular premier in Canada.<ref name="gaffe" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-03-18 |title=Premier Heather Stefanson remains the most unpopular Canadian premier, poll suggests |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/premier-heather-stefanson-remains-the-most-unpopular-canadian-premier-poll-suggests-1.5826043 |access-date=2022-04-06 |website=Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Manitoba's Stefanson bottom of the barrel again in Angus Reid premiers' rankings |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/8692813/manitoba-heather-stefanson-lowest-premiers-rankings/ |access-date=2022-04-06 |website=CJOB |language=en-US}}</ref>

On January 27, 2022, Stefanson admitted to breaking [[conflict of interest]] rules when she failed to disclose over $31 million in property sales.  As an MLA, Stefanson had listed these properties among her assets, but then stopped when the properties sold and she did not file the required paperwork, but had met with the conflict of interest commissioner.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Sanders|first=Carol|date=2022-01-27|title=Stefanson admits breaking conflict-of-interest rules|language=en-CA|work=Winnipeg Free Press|url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/stefanson-admits-breaking-conflict-of-interest-rules-576133472.html|access-date=2022-01-28}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Sanders |first1=Carol |title=Stefanson reverses course on conflict of interest admission |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2022/02/02/stefanson-reverses-course-on-conflict-of-interest-admission |access-date=2022-08-23 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |date=2 February 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>

On March 15, Stefanson received widespread criticism<ref>{{Cite news |last=Brodbeck |first=Tom |date=2022-03-17 |title=Ignoring question about dead mother to brag about son a callous act by premier |language=en-CA |work=Winnipeg Free Press |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/premier-leaves-her-decency-at-the-rink-576303942.html |access-date=2022-03-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Sanders |first=Carol |date=2022-03-17 |title=Premier apologizes after being skewered for response to ICU death |language=en-CA |work=Winnipeg Free Press |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/premier-apologizes-after-being-skewered-for-response-to-icu-death-576304592.html |access-date=2022-03-18}}</ref><ref name="gaffe">{{Cite web |title=Stelter: Stefanson's latest gaffe could only prove to worsen approval rating |url=https://winnipegsun.com/opinion/columnists/stelter-stefansons-latest-gaffe-could-only-prove-to-worsen-approval-rating |access-date=2022-03-21 |website=winnipegsun |language=en-CA}}</ref> for responding to a question from [[Wab Kinew]], the Leader of the Opposition, about Krystal Mousseau, an ICU patient who died during a failed transfer to a hospital out of Manitoba,<ref>{{Cite web |last=McKendrick |first=Devon |date=2021-05-27 |title=Manitoba ICU patient who died before transfer to Ontario identified |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/manitoba-icu-patient-who-died-before-transfer-to-ontario-identified-1.5445909 |access-date=2022-03-18 |website=Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref> for responding by talking about her son's performance at a hockey game. Two days later, Stefanson issued a brief written apology.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-03-17 |title=Premier Stefanson says comment about son's hockey game was 'misplaced' |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/premier-stefanson-says-comment-about-son-s-hockey-game-was-misplaced-1.5823399 |access-date=2022-03-18 |website=CTV News Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-03-17 |title=Manitoba premier talks about son's hockey team when asked about woman's death |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/manitoba-premier-talks-about-son-s-hockey-team-when-asked-about-woman-s-death-1.5824454 |access-date=2022-03-18 |website=CTVNews |language=en}}</ref> Kinew has been calling for an inquiry into circumstances of the death citing a letter from the [[Regional health authorities in Manitoba|regional health authority]] released a letter explaining that the transfer team was lacking critical monitoring equipment and training. Additionally, the patient was being given medication at the wrong rate.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-03-17 |title=Manitoba premier says the timing of her remarks on son's hockey game was misplaced |language=en-CA |work=The Toronto Star |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2022/03/17/manitoba-premier-says-the-timing-of-her-remarks-on-sons-hockey-game-was-misplaced.html |access-date=2022-03-18 |issn=0319-0781}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba NDP asks premier to call inquiry into woman's death during COVID-19 hospital transfer |url=https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/canada/manitoba-ndp-asks-premier-to-call-inquiry-into-womans-death-during-covid-19-hospital-transfer/ar-AAV9YG1 |access-date=2022-03-18 |website=MSN |language=en-CA}}</ref> Dr. John Younes, Manitoba's Chief Medical Examiner, declined to call an inquest into the death.<ref name=":8"/> On March 1, 2021, Younes wrote to Kinew stating that a "carefully considered medical decision was made to move patients out of province to make room for incoming patients who would otherwise not survive."<ref name=":8"/> He added that it is not the role of an inquest to "second guess complex medical decisions, particularly those made under horrific circumstances."<ref name=":8" /> Kinew was later criticised for exploiting Mousseau's death for political gain.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Posted |first=Charles Adler |date=2023-06-24 |title=Opinion: Political attacks versus long-term damage |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/analysis/2023/06/24/political-attacks-versus-long-term-damage |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |language=en-US}}</ref>

On June 9, 2022, [[Pride Winnipeg]] criticised Stefanson for using Pride as a photo-op when she did not march in the parade despite having promised to do so. When questioned, Stefanson blamed this on "scheduling conflicts" and miscommunication from her staff.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Silva |first=Danielle Da |date=2022-06-09 |title=Premier on defensive over Pride parade absence |language=en-CA |work=Winnipeg Free Press |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/premier-on-defensive-over-pride-parade-absence-576579872.html |access-date=2022-06-09}}</ref> The previous Premier, [[Brian Pallister]], similarly broke his promise to march in the parade after giving a speech; as a result, Pride Winnipeg implemented a policy that invited speakers must also march in the parade.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-06-09 |title=Just Like Pallister, Stefanson Was Also A No-Show At The Pride Parade March |url=https://www.thedailyscrum.ca/2022/06/09/just-like-pallister-stefanson-was-also-a-no-show-at-the-pride-parade-march/ |access-date=2022-06-09 |website=www.thedailyscrum.ca |language=en-CA}}</ref> Pride Winnipeg subsequently stated that they would not be extending an invitation to Stefanson to speak at any 2023 Pride events.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Winnipeg |first=Pride |date=2022-06-09 |title=Pride Winnipeg Condemns Premier Stefanson For Not Walking in the 2022 Canada Pride Parade |url=https://pridewinnipeg.com/pride-winnipeg-condemns-premier-stefanson-for-not-walking-in-the-2022-canada-pride-parade/ |access-date=2022-06-09 |website=Pride Winnipeg |language=en-CA}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-06-09 |title=Manitoba premier banned from future Pride events after absence from parade |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/stefanson-pride-winnipeg-parade-1.6482770 |access-date=2022-06-09}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-06-09 |title=Pride organizers upset that Manitoba premier spoke at rally but did not march |language=en-CA |work=The Toronto Star |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2022/06/09/pride-organizers-upset-that-manitoba-premier-spoke-at-rally-but-did-not-march.html |access-date=2022-06-09 |issn=0319-0781}}</ref> Stefanson ultimately announced annual grants of $250,000 for Winnipeg Pride, and would take part in the 2023 event by walking in the parade.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ChrisD.ca |date=2023-05-23 |title=Manitoba Increases Funding for Winnipeg Pride, Premier Stefanson to Walk in Parade |url=https://www.chrisd.ca/2023/05/23/winnipeg-pride-funding-heather-stefanson-parade/ |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=ChrisD.ca - Winnipeg News |language=en-CA}}</ref>

On Tuesday, October 18, 2022, concerns were raised when it was discovered that Stefanson had used an undisclosed secret email for government communication.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Sanders |first1=Carol |title=Stefanson under fire for using secret email address |url=https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/2022/10/18/stefanson-under-fire-for-using-secret-email-address |access-date=2022-10-20 |website=Winnipeg Free Press |date=18 October 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> In a [[Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (Manitoba)|freedom of information]] request, it was revealed that on February 11, Stefanson privately pleaded for help from the federal government amidst [[Canada convoy protest|border blockades]], asking for "immediate and effective" action and "national leadership that only you and the federal government can provide."<ref>{{Cite news |last=MacLean |first=Cameron |date=Feb 16, 2022 |title=Manitoba premier trying 'to have it both ways' in messaging on border protests: political observers |work=CBC News |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/premier-letter-prime-minister-border-blockade-1.6354339}}</ref> A few days later, Stefanson would publicly claim that the situation was under control, and called on the government to refrain from using the ''[[Emergencies Act]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Sanders |first1=Carol |last2=Robertson |first2=Dylan |title=Premier's letter to PM contrasts with public remarks about blockade |url=https://www.brandonsun.com/local/2022/02/15/premiers-letter-to-pm-contrasts-with-public-remarks-about-blockade |access-date=2022-10-20 |website=Brandon Sun |date=15 February 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>

In February 2023, Stefanson ended an online school that was launched in January 2021 to provide a remote learning option for grades K-8 during the height of the pandemic, the only K-8 remote learning option at the time. The Manitoba Remote Learning Support Center was ended as the provincial government stated that it was never intended to be a permanent fixture.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=Online school for Grades K-8 in Manitoba will come to an end this school year |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/manitoba-resource-learning-support-centre-closing-1.6747890}}</ref> Despite several phone calls and emails of concern over the closure,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Manitoba faces backlash over virtual school closure |date=27 April 2023 |url=https://theflatlander.ca/manitoba-faces-backlash-over-virtual-school-closure/}}</ref> enrolment in the remote learning centre was shown to have decreased by 85% since its launch in 2021—serving a student population of 1,050 in the 2020/21 school year, to near 200 by 2023.<ref name=":5" />

=== Defeat ===
Stefanson led the PCs into the [[2023 Manitoba general election]]. During the previous legislature, the rival opposition [[Manitoba NDP]] had gained a polling lead over the PCs. However, the lead had tightened during the campaign period. She primarily campaigned on reducing the cost of living for Manitoba families and businesses.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://angusreid.org/manitoba-election-polling-ndp-pc-wab-kinew-heather-stefanson/ | title=Manitoba Election: Kinew and NDP hold six-point advantage at midway mark of campaign | date=20 September 2023 }}</ref> At the election, the PCs were heavily defeated by the NDP. Following her party's defeat, Stefanson announced she would step down as the leader of the Progressive Conservatives.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-03 |title=Heather Stefanson stepping down as PC leader |url=https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/heather-stefanson-stepping-down-as-pc-leader-1.6587985 |access-date=2023-10-14 |website=Winnipeg |language=en}}</ref> She narrowly held on to her own seat, and was one of only three PCs left in the capital. In April 2024, she announced that she would resign from her seat and retire from politics,<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 April 2024 |title=Former Manitoba premier Heather Stefanson resigning as MLA |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/heather-stefanson-resigning-tuxedo-mla-former-manitoba-premier-1.7185090 |access-date=19 June 2024 |website=CBC}}</ref> triggering the [[2024 Tuxedo provincial by-election|2024 Tuxedo by-election]], which was won by the NDP, the first time the PCs did not win the constituency since its creation in 1981.

==Electoral results==
{{2023 Manitoba general election/Tuxedo}}
{{2019 Manitoba general election/Tuxedo}}
{{2016 Manitoba general election/Tuxedo}}
{{2011 Manitoba general election/Tuxedo}}
{{2007 Manitoba general election/Tuxedo}}<ref>http://www.electionsmanitoba.ca/en/Results/39_division_results/39_tuxedo_summary_results.html - 2007 results</ref>

{{Canadian election result/top|MB|2003|Tuxedo (electoral district)|Tuxedo|percent=yes|change=yes|expenditures=yes}}
{{CANelec|MB|PC|Heather Stefanson|4,213|52.81|−7.91|$32,959.68}}
{{CANelec|MB|NDP|Sonia Taylor |2,023 |25.36 |+1.56 |$992.64}}
{{CANelec |MB |Liberal |Marla Billinghurst |1,741 |21.83 |−14.10 |$8,740.56}}
{{Canadian election result/total|Total valid votes|7,977|100.0 &nbsp;}}
{{Canadian election result/total|Total rejected ballots|&ndash;|&ndash;|&ndash;}}
{{CANelec/source|Source: [[Elections Manitoba]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.elections.mb.ca/en/Results/38_division_results/38_tuxedo_summary_results.html |title=Tuxedo — Official Results — 2003 Provincial Election |accessdate=2010-12-20 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716065915/http://www.elections.mb.ca/en/Results/38_division_results/38_tuxedo_summary_results.html |archivedate=2011-07-16 }}</ref>}}
{{end}}

{{Canadian election result/top|MB|November 21, 2000|Tuxedo|Tuxedo|percent=yes|change=yes|by=yes|reason=Resignation of [[Gary Filmon]]}}
{{CANelec|MB|PC|Heather Stefanson|3,692|59.46|-1.26}}
{{CANelec |MB |Liberal |Rochelle Zimberg|1,586 |25.54 |+11.35}}
{{CANelec|MB|NDP|Iona Starr |916 |14.75|-9.05}}
{{Canadian election result/total|Total valid votes|6,194|}}
{{Canadian election result/total|Total rejected ballots|15||}}
{{Canadian election result/total|Turnout|6,209|46.03|}}
{{Canadian election result/total|Eligible voters|13,488}}
{{CANelec/hold|MB|PC|}}
{{CANelec/source|Source: [[Elections Manitoba]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.electionsmanitoba.ca/downloads/2000_Kirkfield_Tuxedo_statvotes.pdf#page=12 |title=Statement of Votes for the Kirkfield Park & Tuxedo By-Elections |accessdate=2023-07-11}}</ref>}}
{{end}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{MBPremiers}}
{{Manitoba PC Leaders}}
{{Manitoba MLAs}}
{{Pallister ministry}}

{{Stefanson ministry}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Stefanson, Heather}}
[[Category:1970 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Members of the Executive Council of Manitoba]]
[[Category:Politicians from Winnipeg]]
[[Category:Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba MLAs]]
[[Category:University of Western Ontario alumni]]
[[Category:Women MLAs in Manitoba]]
[[Category:21st-century Canadian women politicians]]
[[Category:Women government ministers of Canada]]
[[Category:Deputy premiers of Manitoba]]
[[Category:Premiers of Manitoba]]
[[Category:Ministers of health of Manitoba]]
[[Category:Female Canadian political party leaders]]
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