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Ontario’s changing workplace: New labour law rules and regulations

Are you a business owner looking for help with Ontario’s labour laws? Do you know what steps to take to meet your obligations as an employer? We can guide you through these changes in your workplace.

On October 26, 2023, Ontario’s Bill 79, the Working for Workers’ Act, 2023, received Royal Assent. This Act introduced amendments to key legislation, including:

  • The Employment Standards Act, 2000 (ESA)
  • The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
  • Employment Protection for Foreign Nationals Act, 2009 (EPFNA)
  • The Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities Act, and
  • The Fair Access to Regulated Professions and Compulsory Trades Act, 2006.

Bill 79, Working for Workers Act 2023

Amendments to the ESA

Group Terminations

The Act expanded the definition of “establishment of the employer” to include the private residence of a worker. This ensures remote staff receive the same termination entitlements as on-site staff.

Termination notice Employers must ensure that fully remote staff receive a copy of Form 1 (through which employers provide notice of group termination to the Ontario Director of Employment Standards) and are notified of any group termination affecting them.

Bill 79, Working for Workers Act 2023

Reservist Leave An employee is also entitled to reservist leave if they are in treatment, recovery, or rehabilitation for a physical or mental health illness, injury, or medical emergency caused by their participation in an operation, emergency, or training activity.

The continuous employment period to qualify for the leave is now 2 consecutive months of service.

Protection for Foreign Nationals and Recruiter License Requirements

For Recruiters and Temporary Help Agencies applying for a license or a license renewal, the Act increases licensing requirements. It also increases the maximum fines for individuals and corporations convicted of taking possession of or retaining the property of a foreign national, such as their passport or work permit.

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Working for Workers Five Act, 2024 On May 6, 2024, Ontario introduced Bill 190, Working for Workers Five Act, 2024, which proposes amendments to the following legislation:

  • Employment Standards Act
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act
  • Workplace Safety and Insurance Act

What is the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB)? The OLRB is a quasi-judicial tribunal that conducts hearings. It has its own distinct procedure rules.The OLRB reviews the following ESA Orders:

  • Wage Compensation Orders
  • Reprisal Remedies
  • Wage Compensation Orders against Directors of Employer Corporation
  • Compliance Orders
  • Orders involving temporary help agencies.

Are you compliant with the latest legislation? Get free expert support today! If you need support implementing the new amendments, our experts are here to help. Call us today at 833-710-0677.

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