Submissions 2023

The OBA provides comments and recommendations on FSRA’s proposed interpretation and approach for Pension Plan Amendments Guidance.

The OBA provides comments and recommendations responding to the 13 specific questions posited in the NOSI consultation paper. Topics include defining fixtures, the duration of NOSIs, notice requirements, assignments, and more.

The OBA provides comments on the proposal to return lands to the Greenbelt, which includes feedback on the proposal to remove the regulatory authority for adding/removing lands, improving the consultation process, and concerns with the limitations on remedies provisions in the Bill.

The OBA supports the goal of modernizing and strengthening consumer protections for Ontarians and provides targeted comments on various provisions for the Standing Committee on Justice Policy regarding the repeal and replacement of the Consumer Protection Act.

The open court principle (and established exceptions) should be applied equally, regardless of the mode of proceedings. The public should not have to provide identifying information to receive a Zoom link. Use tech solutions to mitigate risk rather than restricting public access.

Comments focus on removing the requirement that administrators provide notice of registration in some cases, removing the prohibition against the use of surplus in the first valuation report, and the need for clarification on restoring previously accrued benefits for former members.

OBA supports: amending the Rules and the CJA s 140 to allow vexatious litigant orders to be obtained by motion (in addition to application) and on a judges own initiative; creating additional pathways for expedited access to the courts to pre-empt VL litigation; and creating a list of hallmarks of VLs to provide additional clarity and consistency. Special consideration needs to be given to the VL in Family Law matters.

The OBA recommends a principles-based approach must be flexible enough to account for different Plan characteristics. Similarly, it is the OBA’s view that a Guidance document should clearly distinguish requirements from "good or best practices”.

The OBA recognizes the paramount importance of protecting worker’s health and safety, but advocates for simplifying the proposed methodology for measuring and assessing heat exposure limits in the workplace.

The CSP is an important and reliable indication to members of the public that verifies a lawyer’s expertise. It promotes access to justice and is important in promoting EDI. The CSP should be expanded to other areas, and remain under the supervision of the LSO.