Bill 229, Working for Workers Six Act, 2024

Last week, the Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, Hon. David Piccini introduced Bill 229, Working for Workers Six Act, 2024. Currently in Second Reading, the proposed legislation amends various statutes, including the Employment Standards Act and Occupational Health and Safety Act, with respect to employment, labour and other matters.   

Key proposals that municipalities should be aware of as employers of include: 

  • a new parental leave for employees who become parents through adoption or surrogacy; 

  • a new long-term illness leave; 

  • changes to cancer coverage for firefighters; 

  • requirements for employers to ensure that personal protective clothing and equipment (PPE) is properly fitted and appropriate in the circumstances; 

  • expanding existing slow down and move over laws under the Highway Traffic Act to include emergency responses vehicles and tow trucks; 

  • implement mandatory minimum fines of $500,000 for corporations convicted of repeated offences under the OHSA; 

  • enhanced powers for the Chief Prevention Officer (CPO), related to training programs, policies on training requirements, and collection of personal information; and 

  • empower the Minister to make orders in respect of worker trades committees. 

If passed, days on which each amendment would come into force varies.  

Corresponding registry postings are available:   

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