At 2:30 p.m. today, The 2017-18 provincial budget was released with mixed reactions from around the province.

The budget places the overall deficit at $1.288 billion at the end of the fiscal year. An overall $900 million more in tax revenue is expected for the year.

The biggest change, a one percent increase in PST from 5% to 6% officially took place at midnight last night.

Other changes include the elimination of the Saskatchewan Transit Company, the end of the Community Rink Funding program, and a 50% reduction in funding for regional parks.

While the budget includes many cuts, it also includes an increase to social services, with a 9.1% or $113 million increase in the overall budget.

In addition, long-term healthcare cost will increase for residents based on income. Some residents will have to pay up to $630 more.

Look to Swift Current Online in the coming days for reactions to the budget from around the southwest.