Regular Sector Policy & Advocacy Updates
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Several regulatory and legislative changes came into effect as of January 1, 2025. Some of the changes most relevant to municipalities include:
Ministry of the Attorney General
An amendment to the Cannabis Control Act, 2017 prohibits and establishes fines for the…
On December 9, the Government of Ontario introduced Bill 238, Emergency Management Modernization Act, 2024. The bill makes amendments to the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, 1990, and the Ministry of Community and Social Services Act R.S.O. 1990…
Last week, Liberal MPP Lucille Collard tabled Bill 236, Captive Wildlife Protection Act, to create basic standards and a licensing requirement for individuals and “roadside zoos” that keep exotic animals in captivity. Endorsed by World Animal Protection (WAP) and the…
Climate Ready Infrastructure Service (CRIS) is a new program aimed at supporting local government infrastructure projects. Its goal is to support infrastructure owners and decision-makers in developing projects that build resilience and contribute to Canada's path to net-zero…
In late November, the Province announced they will provide over $77 million in financial relief to municipalities to help offset the increased cost of municipal police services provided by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). The investment addresses budget impacts resulting…
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…
As members may be aware, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Paul Calandra, has ordered a review of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS) which manages and provides pension services to municipal employees, municipal council members and Metrolinx…
Applications for the 2025-2026 round of Seniors Community Grants are now open. These grants provide municipalities and non-profit organizations with $1,000 to $25,000 for local projects that help older adults live independently, ensure their safety and security,…
Last month, the Ontario Minister of Red Tape Reduction, Hon. Mike Harris, introduced Bill 227, Cutting Red Tape, Building Ontario Act, 2024. Similar to previous years, the bill includes legislative amendments included in the Province’s Fall Red Tape Reduction Package. …
As of December 2, Infrastructure Ontario began accepting applications for the Housing-Enabling Water Infrastructure (HEWI) lending stream, under Infrastructure Ontario’s (IO) Loan Program. Previously announced in August, the program provides up to $1 billion in loans to…
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