SYP is encouraging eligible young voters to get active and vote in both the upcoming provincial and municipal elections set to take place this year. And for those who can’t vote this time round, to learn more about how the electoral system works so they are ready to vote.
We know that the decisions made today will impact future generations the longest. So it important for young voters to get out.
We have some basic information below, plus a few general questions about the elections that you may have. Have something you want to know more about, let us know at info@saskyp.ca.
But we hope you get out and vote and have your voice be heard and vote this fall.
General Things to Know
Who is eligible to vote?
-To vote in Saskatchewan, you must be 18 years of age, a Canadian Citizen, and a resident of Saskatchewan. For more information about voter eligibility, we encourage you visit the Elections Saskatchewan website here: https://www.elections.sk.ca/voters/voter-id-requirements/
Do I need to register to vote?
While you can register to vote on election day, it is fastest and easiest to vote ahead of election day. To register for the Provincial Election, you can sign up here: https://www.elections.sk.ca/voters/register-to-vote/
Do I need ID to vote?
Yes, generally you will need to present ID to vote. A drivers license is the easiest option. For more options please review the Elections Saskatchewan website: https://www.elections.sk.ca/voters/voter-id-requirements/
Where do I vote?
More information will be provided closer to the election. Often if you are registered to vote in advance of the election period, you will be provided with notice of your voting location in advance. Most voting will take place in locations like a school, community facility, or local church.
Provincial Election
When is the Provincial Election?
The provincial election is tentatively set to take place on October 28, 2024 (subject to change).
Who am I voting for?
In this election, we will vote for our Member of the Legislative Assembly, better known as an MLA. They will represent their constituency in the Provincial Legislature in Regina. Traditionally they are elected to a four year term.
What type of Issues do Members of the Legislature oversee?
Everything from education, post-secondary, health care, highways, and municipal funding are just a few of the issues that the provincial government is responsible for. As well, the province sets the Provincial Sales Tax (PST), that you would have paid on purchases you’ve made. This type of tax revenue helps to pay for the services mentioned above.
Municipal Elections
When is the Municipal Election?
Each municipality runs their own election. For example, the City of Regina will run its own election separate from the election held by the Town of Tisdale. But they will often share a common election date. The current date set for the elections to take place is November 13, 2024.
Who am I voting for in this election?
In municipal elections, there are often several votes that can take place depending on the municipality you are in. Votes can include votes for Mayor, Councillor, Reeve, and School Board Trustee.
If you live in a town or city, the Mayor is the leader of the town or city council and lead official for the community. Councilors act as your representative for your community at council.
If you live outside of a town or city, you will live in a Rural Municipality, or RM for short, that oversees local governance in your area. You will typically vote for a Reeve, performing a similar function to that of a Mayor. You will also vote for a councilor to represent you at RM council meetings.
Many communities will also run school board elections. Allowing you to choose a representative to help be a voice of the community at the school board council and help determine school board policies.
What type of Issues do local councils oversee?
Typically councils will oversee more local issues that impact your community. This will vary by town and community based on size and need. But issues can include policing and fire protection services, libraries, community facility oversight, and garbage and sanitation.
One issue that impacts many in local communities is property taxes. Local councils determine the property tax rate in their community. These are the funds that are used to pay for community services mentioned above.
Saskatchewan Youth Parliament 