In advance of formal approval of the entire 2024-25 territorial budget, the Yukon government is asking for funds so departments can operate through April and May.

Bill No. 214, the Interim Supply Appropriation Act 2024-25, seeks $458.3 million, with $373.1 million for operation and maintenance spending, and $85.2 million in capital spending.

MLAs approved second reading and completed committee of the whole debate on Tuesday, with final approval expected shortly.

“The bill ensures that government services continue and that employees, Yukon businesses, and government contractors continue to get paid until the 2024-25 main estimates receive assent,” Finance Minister Sandy Silver told MLAs.

The Yukon Party said it will be voting against the bill, as it deals with the budget and is a confidence vote.

“We know that 80 per cent of Yukoners want a change in government. Yukoners are done with this Liberal government,” said Yukon Party MLA Brad Cathers, referencing an opinion poll his party commissioned earlier this year.

The NDP has an agreement with the Liberals to support them on confidence votes.

“It is important that government be able to continue on during times of budget debate,” said leader Kate White.

“It’s important that services are offered and people are paid.”

As in previous years, the majority of the funding includes one-sixth of the forecast budget as well as large payments due early in the fiscal year for items such as the comprehensive municipal grants, the Yukon Hospital Corp. contribution agreement, the Yukon University contribution agreement, social assistance payments and funds for universal childcare expenses.