Motorists in Manitoba could be in store for another decrease in their insurance rates.
    
Manitoba Public Insurance announced today that it is requesting an average rate decrease of .9 per cent for its 2023/ 24 general rate. The request has been filed with the Public Utilities Board.
    
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Mark Giesbrecht says this fourth consecutive annual rate decrease request is primarily the result of emerging claim trends and the continued strength of MPI's rate stabilization reserve.
    
The board normally issues its order in December.
    
The proposed rates would be effective, beginning April First. Because renewal dates are staggered, some vehicle owners will not pay their new rates until March 31, 2024.

According to Giesbrecht, over the course of the last two years, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in fewer claims, which meant MPI returned nearly $500 million to policy holders in rebates. However, as many Manitobans have returned to previous driving behaviours, Giesbrecht says so have overall claims.