The OBA provides feedback to the Law Society of Ontario recommending it reject the Increased Transparency proposal as outlined. The public protection goals are important shared objectives, but the proposal has an extreme imbalance between the risks to licensees and the profession, and those public protection goals. We urge the LSO to work with legal stakeholders on an updated proposal that achieves the necessary balance for the profession and the public.

Premier Dips Toe in Mexican Trade Waters: Premier Doug Ford is floating the idea of returning to a Canada-U.S. bilateral pact like the one that predated the enactment of NAFTA in 1994. Ford alluded to the likely difficult review ahead for the pact known in Canada as CUSMA (the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement).

Ford Wants Trump to “Bet Big” on Ontario: Following the election of Donald Trump, Premier Doug Ford is pitching continued economic co-operation between Ontario and its southerly neighbour. Trump's second term in office could have profound consequences for Canada, particularly when it comes to trade.

Four Judicial Appointments to the SCJ in Ontario: The federal government announced two appointments to the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario earlier this week, as well as two more on Friday.

Legislature Back in Session: Ontario tabled its first bill of the fall legislative sitting on Monday. Bill 212, Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024, would give the province veto power over some bike lanes, accelerate highway construction projects and ease environmental assessments for new highways.

Fall Economic Statement Coming Soon: The province will release its 2024 Fall Economic Statement a bit earlier this year. On Wednesday, Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy announced on X that this year’s statement will be released on Oct. 30 – one week before the U.S. presidential election.

Province to Audit Children’s Aid Sector: The province is launching a review of the 37 non-Indigenous children's aid societies, looking at the quality of protection they provide and their financial management. Premier Doug Ford said last week he has heard "nightmare stories about the abuse of taxpayers' money," suggesting the agencies are working in places he referred to as Taj Mahals, and managers are giving themselves bonuses.

Get Your Motor Runnin’: Premier Doug Ford says his government is planning to increase speed limits on 400-series highways across the province. The government increased speed limits from 100 kilometres per hour to 110 kilometres per hour on six sections of provincial highways in 2022, after several successful pilot programs that first began in 2019. Earlier this year, the province raised the speed limit on 10 more sections of highways across the province.

A Tunnel is for Digging: Ontario Premier Doug Ford says he wants to build a tunnel for cars and transit under Highway 401 that would stretch roughly from Brampton to Scarborough.

PCs Hold on to Eastern Ontario Seat: Progressive Conservative candidate Tyler Allsopp will represent Bay of Quinte in the Ontario legislature. The Belleville councillor and business owner won Thursday’s byelection with 38.69 per cent of the vote, a slim victory of 2,002 votes over Liberal candidate Sean Kelly. The NDP’s Amanda Robertson was third.

Province Eyes LTB Changes: Premier Doug Ford says changes could be coming to the province's rental rules, arguing the “pendulum has swung” against small, independent landlords. Earlier this week,

Premier Lashes Out at Feds Over Bail: Premier Doug Ford has once again slammed the federal government over bail laws when it comes to repeat offenders. “We need the federal government to change the Criminal Code once and for all, and stop being a bunch of bleeding hearts,” Ford said at an unrelated news conference on Tuesday.

Early Election May Be on the Horizon: In the latest sign Ontario could be heading toward an early election, the Progressive Conservative Party will begin nominating candidates in a matter of weeks, including sitting ministers who plan to run again. At the end of May, Ontario Premier Doug Ford sent opposition parties scrambling to prepare for a snap poll when he repeatedly refused to rule out calling an early election.

Provincial Consultation on PPNs: The Ontario Ministry of Finance has announced a 60-day public comment period asking insurance companies, pharmacy operators, consumers and employers to help the government better understand the role of “preferred provider networks” (PPNs) in the province’s group benefits insurance sector. The government is considering whether new regulations are needed to limit exclusivity deals between insurers and pharmacies.

Ontario Education Minister Resigns: Minister Todd Smith is resigning effective immediately. He has accepted a job in the private sector. Smith has served in cabinet since Premier Doug Ford's government was first elected in 2018, but spent the longest amount of time in the energy portfolio. He spent less than three months as education minister.

New Hospital in Waterloo: The University of Waterloo has been chosen as the site for the newest state-of-the-art hospital, which is expected to open in 2035. The government is investing nearly $50 billion in health infrastructure over the next 10 years, including adding 3,000 new beds.

New Marching Orders for Cabinet: The premier handed out fresh mandate letters to his ministers on Thursday as his new election-focused team met for their first in-person cabinet meeting at Queen’s Park. The content of those mandate letters, however, will remain hidden from the public view as the Ford government upholds a practice of cabinet secrecy, endorsed by the Supreme Court.

SCJ OKs Class Action by Immigration Detainees: The Ontario Superior Court of Justice has certified a class-action lawsuit against the federal government regarding the use of provincial jails for immigration detainees. The suit represents 8,360 people who were detained in 87 provincial and territorial jails by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) between 2016 and 2023. The claim seeks $100 million dollars in damages, to be divided among the complainants if they win.

Nine Judges Appointed to OCJ: The Ontario government has announced the appointment of nine new judges to the Ontario Court of Justice, effective July 11, 2024.

PCs Polling About Going to the Polls: Ontario’s Progressive Conservatives are apparently pretty serious about possibly triggering an election ahead of schedule. Global News is reporting that Campaign Research, the preferred polling firm of the Ontario PCs, recently asked voters whether they would support early election calls from both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier Doug Ford.

Three Judges Appointed to Superior Court: The Hon. Arif Virani, minister of justice and attorney general of Canada, announced three appointments to the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario on Tuesday.

Ontario Place Challenge Dismissed: The Ontario Superior Court of Justice Divisional Court has quashed an application for a judicial review filed by Ontario Place for All, a grassroots organization opposed to the province's plans for Ontario Place that include a new spa and indoor water park.

The Shuffle Before the Recess: The premier announced a pretty significant cabinet shuffle late Thursday. The biggest change is in education, where Stephen Lecce has been replaced by Todd Smith. Lecce will take over the energy file from Smith.

Increasing Court Capacity: The Ontario government announced on Thursday that it will be appointing at least 25 new judges to the Ontario Court of Justice, as well as hiring 190 more Crown prosecutors, victim support and court staff.

More ServiceOntario “retail partnerships”: The province is planning to move more ServiceOntario locations into retail stores. The Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery has posted a request for qualifications looking for “retailers of all sizes” that might want to host locations. An online posting calls for any businesses interested in a “lease model retail partnership with ServiceOntario.”

Safeguarding Students: The Ontario government plans to introduce regulatory changes through legislation that would create protections to better safeguard students’ information from being stolen or used inappropriately while on school devices.

PCs Win Two Byelections: Premier Doug Ford’s Progressive Conservative candidates won both Ontario byelections by convincing margins on Thursday. PC candidate Zee Hamid won by more than 2,400 votes, or nine percentage points, while fellow PC Steve Pinsonneault drew 57 per cent of the votes in the Tory stronghold of Lambton-Kent-Middlesex.

Need for Speed: The Ontario government is raising the speed limit from 100 km/h to 110km/h on 10 additional sections of provincial highways. The changes will apply to certain sections of Highways 401, 403, 406, 416 and 69.

Pain at the Pumps: Premier Doug Ford lashed out about the sharp rise in gas prices this week. But what is causing it? Well, prices at Ontario gas stations are tied to what happens in the New York Harbour, which switched to the summer blend on April 16.

Homing In at Queen’s Park: The Ford government has unveiled a new omnibus bill focused on streamlining home building and approvals in the province. The Cutting Red Tape to Build More Housing Act includes a reduction in the amount of parking developers need to build, special rules to fast-track the construction of student accommodation and a “use-it-or-lose-it” policy. The province wants to get 1.5 million new homes built by 2031.

Parts of Panhandling Law Unconstitutional: An Ontario court has struck down sections of the province's panhandling law. The Fair Change legal clinic argued the law violated several charter rights, including freedom of expression and the right not to be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment.

A First for Ontario Legislature: MPPs can now speak Indigenous languages at Queen's Park. While members were previously allowed to only speak either English or French, an amendment passed Tuesday allows them to also address the Speaker in an Indigenous language spoken in Canada. If members wish to do so, they must notify the clerk ahead of time so interpretation and translation services can be made available.

Lawsuit Over Basic Income Cancellation: The province is facing a class action lawsuit for the cancellation of its basic income pilot project. Law firm Cavalluzzo LLP says the suit, brought forward by 4,000 people who took part in the project, claims damages for the sudden cancellation in 2018 by the Ford government. The suit is seeking damages up to $200 million.

Action! Very Soon: Housing Minister Paul Calandra says he expects to introduce the spring housing bill “very soon.” In this case, “very soon” means after the March 26 budget. “I think there are some issues the budget will help facilitate, so we’ll do it after,” he told reporters at Queen’s Park. The Ford government introduces a new Housing Supply Action Plan every spring as it aims to boost supply to reach its goal of 1.5 million new homes by 2031.

B-Day at Queen’s Park: Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy will table the next Ontario budget on March 26. In a post on X Thursday morning, he said the budget will outline how the government is “rebuilding Ontario's economy without raising taxes and fees or putting more burden on businesses and municipalities." The OBA will have full coverage of the budget and how it impacts lawyers, as well as information about relevant policy initiatives. Stay tuned!

Remembering Brian Mulroney: Premier Doug Ford is remembering the late Brian Mulroney as a “mentor” and advisor”. “You wanna talk about leadership? You wanna talk about trailblazers, visionaries? That was Brian Mulroney,” Ford said of the former prime minister who passed away on Thursday at the age of 84.

Repeal Reveal: The provincial government quietly repealed Bill 124 on Friday morning through an Order in Council, which it says was permitted through the legislation. Bill 124 capped salary increases for public sector workers. It was struck down as unconstitutional and the Court of Appeal upheld that decision. 

Bill 124 Very Repealing: The province says it will repeal a wage-cap law on public sector workers that the Court of Appeal found unconstitutional on Monday. Bill 124 capped salary increases for public sector workers at one per cent a year for three years. It was struck down as unconstitutional and the Court of Appeal upheld that decision.

Breakfast at Dougie’s: Ontario Premier Doug Ford met with his Alberta counterpart for a “working breakfast” at his home in Etobicoke, this week. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is facing criticism after introducing provincial legislation that, among other things, prohibits anyone under 18 from undergoing gender-affirming surgeries.

Courthouse expansion? Check: The Ontario government has announced the completed expansion of the Brampton courthouse. The $117 million investment in the expansion of the courthouse – one of the busiest in the province – includes six additional floors with 18 new hearing rooms, upgraded security features, and improved accessibility spaces. The government says the courthouse also boasts enhanced technology to support more virtual hearings.

Pedal down on privatization plans: The province has unveiled the next steps in their plans to ramp up the role of for-profit and private clinics in Ontario’s healthcare system. Starting in the spring, the province will begin expanding the number of licensed diagnostic and surgery centres offering things such as MRI and CT scans, endoscopies and orthopedic surgeries. The legislation the changes come under — Bill 60 — was tabled by the Ford government as a way to, hopefully, cut waiting times.

Bail or jail: Ontario's solicitor general has announced a new system to track people on bail. An investment of $24 million is being is being delivered through the Bail Compliance and Warrant Apprehension Grant program. The province says it will help police services establish dedicated bail compliance and/or warrant apprehension teams to monitor high-risk individuals, as well as support new technology for a provincewide bail compliance monitoring system.

Booze news for you: Ontarians will soon have 8,500 new places to buy their favourite drinks. On Thursday, Doug Ford finally made good on his promise to expand the sale of alcohol. Starting in 2026, Ontarians will be able to buy beer, wine, cider and seltzers at convenience stores, big box outlets and some gas stations.

On the auditor’s naughty list: The Ontario auditor general’s office published its annual report on Wednesday … and it wasn’t good news for the government.

Do you give a hoot … or two?: Opposition MPPs are calling for more public engagement concerning the government’s plan to return land to the Greenbelt after Premier Doug Ford said in the Legislature that the public “don’t give two hoots” about the issue.

Banning what’s already banned: The Ontario government unveiled plans this week to ban unpaid trial shifts for restaurant and hospitality workers. But it’s already illegal for employers to do that under the Employment Standards Act. So, what gives? Well, Labour Minister David Piccini says unpaid trial shifts are currently happening as part of the interview process in some restaurants, so this legislation is designed to specifically prohibit the practice.

Feds Creep Out Premier Ford: Premier Doug Ford didn't mince words speaking with reporters about the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund: “We call it jurisdictional creep”. The premier said the province can get a “better bang for the buck” (anyone remember buck-a-beer? We digress...). if it works with the federal government directly. The province also has its own Building Faster Fund that seeks to address the affordable housing issue.

Goodbye HST: Ontario has officially announced plans to remove the provincial portion of HST for new rental housing, in an effort to address the ongoing housing supply crisis. Ontario’s share of the HST represents 8%, but, given the federal government’s similar policy announced in September, the entire 13% HST will not apply to new purpose-built rental housing.

Don’t Look Up: The 2023 World Justice Project Rule of Law Index was released this week, which measures how countries adhere to the rule of law. While Canada ranked 12th overall, it fell to 58th out of 142 countries when it comes to accessing civil justice without reasonable delay. This is well behind peer countries such as the United States (28th), UK (24th) and Australia (19th).

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.

Another Notch on the Greenbelt: On Monday, October 16th, 2023, the government tabled Bill 136, Greenbelt Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023. The legislation would return the previously removed lands to the Greenbelt, and would provide extensive liability immunity to the government for any actions relating to the Greenbelt, and specifically the actions taken regarding the removals in 2022.

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.

Feed me Seymour: As the Greenbelt saga continues, there is increasing speculation about the impact all of this will have on the re-electability of the Premier and this government. The RCMP announced that their “Sensitive and International Investigations Unit” (SII) will investigate.

Call Me Maybe: Global News is reporting that Doug Ford has used his personal cell phone for government business but his office is refusing to divulge his phone logs claiming the need to maintain the privacy of callers. Fun Fact: the reason government officials are not permitted to use private communication devices is to ensure there is an official record of government business.

THIS WEEK AT QUEEN’S PARK (and elsewhere) Federal Minister Joins OBA for Media Launch of Peer Support Network for Lawyers Living with Disabilities: OBA President, Kelly McDermott and Canada’s Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, Carla Qualtrough spoke to the media and special guests about the first-of-its-kind support program which is central to Ms. McDermott’s mandate. The CBC and other media outlets carried the story which will raise awareness. Learn more about this support network here.

Peer Support Network Launch: The OBA is incredibly excited to be joined by The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, for the upcoming launch of the OBA Peer-to-Peer Support Network.

Tories Circle Wagons: Progressive Conservative MPPs have blocked a bid by Liberal MPP McMahon to have former cabinet minister Steve Clark and other senior officials appear before a legislative committee regarding the Greenbelt / developer scandal.

Cabinet Shuffle: Following Minister Steve Clark's resignation, Premier Ford shuffled his cabinet.  The Hon. Paul Calandra takes over as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Hon. Stan Cho becomes Minister of Long-Term Care, the Hon. Prabmeet Sarkaria is the new Minister of Transportation and the Hon. Caroline Mulroney is President of Treasury Board.  Steve Clark continues to be an MPP and a member of the Conservative Caucus.

Greenbelt Gall: A developer who attempted to sell two Greenbelt parcels, instead of building housing, suffered the wrath of DoFo. In a scathing statement, the Premier put the owners “on notice” that the government will require real progress to be made by the end of the year, with a plan to get shovels in the ground by 2025, or else the land will be returned to Greenbelt.

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.

Greenbelt Surrender: The Chief of Staff to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing at the center of the Greenbelt controversy has resigned in the wake of the scathing Auditor General’s report. This is unlikely to quell opposition calls for the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and Premier to resign.

Reports have been swirling online that DoFo, who asserted in 2019 that he's "the only premier in history that refuses to use the premier's plane that costs taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars," hitched a ride with the Ontario Provincial Police to FordFest Windsor, a PC Party celebration that took place on Friday.

Auditor-General's Swan Song: In a highly anticipated report, Auditor-General Bonnie Lysyk, whose 10-year term ends next month, did not hold back in finding that the government’s process for opening the Greenbelt for development was influenced by a group of well-connected developers, who are projected to make billions.

Last week, Prime Minister Trudeau announced a major cabinet shuffle which included the elevation of lawyer, Arif Virani, MP for Parkdale-High Park, to Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. You can learn more about the new Attorney General here.

Note that the OBA offices will be closed July 24-28. Digital Justice Platform: Ontario is moving away from the stone age paper proceedings and is investing $166 million to deliver more legal services online. Check out the Attorney General’s announcement here.

The Council of the Federation, aka Canada’s Premiers, met this week to talk about issues like affordability, health care, economic growth, and Canada’s competitiveness. They even have their own website! Premier Ford championed measures to expedite “shovels in the ground” for big infrastructure projects in Ontario, specifically naming Highway 413 and the Ring of Fire.

Caroline Mulroney was called to the Ontario bar, and three days later was appointed ‘King’s Counsel’ in Ontario. The title is bestowed on lawyers who have demonstrated commitment to the pursuit of legal excellence. Read more here. And in case you were wondering, yes, all Q.C.’s are now K.C’s.

The OBA’s submission on Private Member’s Bill 15 – Fairness for Road Users Act, 2022 which seeks to amend the Highway Traffic Act. This submission focuses on the serious unintended consequences that would result from the wording.

Olivia Chow will be sworn in as Toronto’s next mayor on July 12. After expressing concerns about a “lefty” becoming Mayor, Premier Doug Ford stated that he hopes to find common ground and work with Mayor-elect Chow. Read the CBC article on the results and Chow’s election promises here.

The Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund says they’ve reached a proposed $10 billion settlement with the governments of Ontario and Canada over unpaid annuities for using their land. To learn more about this historic settlement, read more here.  

The Hon. Russell Brown decided to take early retirement from the Supreme Court of Canada following a misconduct claim made against him in January. You can read about it here. Only two weeks left until Toronto chooses a new Mayor on Monday June 26. Remember to get out and vote for one of the 102 candidates. If you are interested, the latest poll numbers are here, although they seem to be changing daily as we get closer to E-Day.

Mark your calendars for Pride Month! Please join the Law Society of Ontario and the Ontario Bar Association and its Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Community (SOGIC) for our annual Pride Month program, Queer Perspectives on Professional Challenges and Mental Health, on June 13, 2023. The program will feature a panel of distinguished 2SLGBTQI+ practitioners. You can register of the event here.

Mark your calendars for Pride Month! Please join the Law Society of Ontario and the Ontario Bar Association and its Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Community (SOGIC) for our annual Pride Month program, Queer Perspectives on Professional Challenges and Mental Health, on June 13, 2023. The program will feature a panel of distinguished 2SLGBTQI+ practitioners. You can register for the event here.

Mark your calendars for Pride Month! Please join the Law Society of Ontario and the Ontario Bar Association and its Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Community (SOGIC) for our annual Pride Month program, Queer Perspectives on Professional Challenges and Mental Health, on June 13, 2023. The program will feature a panel of distinguished 2SLGBTQI+ practitioners. You can register of the event here.

Hazel McCallions legacy lives on: The Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing the hon. Steve Clark introduced Bill 112, the Hazel McCallion Act which would dissolve the Municipality of Peel. Mayor’s Crombie and Brown are already arguing about which city owes money to the other.

The Ontario Bar Association (OBA) appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on Bill 102- Strengthening Safety and Modernizing Justice Act, 2023. As This submission was jointly prepared by members of the OBA’s Criminal Justice and Insurance sections, which include lawyers who practice in every region of Ontario. Members of these sections represent a wide range of clients within the Insurance and Criminal bars and have significant expertise and experience.

Queen Camila! Fun Fact: While the images of Queen Elizabeth II will be phased out in Canada and on currency, everything has to changed immediately in the UK.

On May 6, 2023, Ontario will celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty The Queen with free festivities at Queen’s Park and free admission to parks and attractions across the province. His Majesty King Charles III acceded to the Throne on September 8, 2022, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Ontario SCJ asked the OBA for input into its Guidelines to Determine the Mode of Proceeding in Civil, Family, Criminal and Small Claims Court. We received a range of perspectives from expert lawyers across multiple practice areas and all regions of the province.

On Monday, April 17, 2023, the Hon. Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, introduced Bill 98, Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, 2003.

Marit Stiles, MPP for Davenport, will be the next leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party, City News Toronto reported on December 6. Per the Ontario NDP constitution, the party is scheduled to hold a confirmation vote on March 4.

Attorney General Doug Downey announced on November 21, 2022, the appointment of seven judges to the Ontario Court of Justice, effective December 1, 2022.

Attorney General Doug Downey announced last year that the province was planning to introduce a digital court system that will allow people to access court information from anywhere, and file documents and pay fees online. Bill 46, Less Red Tape, Strong Ontario Act, 2002, introduced on Wednesday, November 23, proposes to move jury duty questionnaires online.

On November 14, 2022, Bill 35, Keeping Students in Class Repeal Act, 2022 received royal assent and Bill 28, Keeping Students in Call Act, 2022 was repealed. Toronto Star reports that the Ontario government rescinded Bill 28 after a national outcry over the legislation that invoked s.33 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the “notwithstanding clause”, to force a four-year contract on CUPE while pre-emptively banning a strike.

Minister of Education Stephen Lecce introduced Bill 28, the Keeping Students in Call Act, 2022, on Monday, October 31, 2022, the day after the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents 55,000 supports workers such as custodians, administrative staff and educational support workers, gave its five-day strike notice.

Marion Boyd, Ontario’s first woman attorney general passed way at the age of 76 on October 11, 2022. Marion Boyd was elected as a New Democrat MPP in London in 1990. She was promoted to attorney general of Ontario in 1993, becoming the first woman and non-lawyer to hold the position.

Today the government tabled Ontario’s Plan to Build, the 2022 provincial budget. It outlines five “pillars”, which takes a different path after two years of pandemic spending and management. This budget proposes significant investment in healthcare, education and critical infrastructure.

The Legislature only sat for one day during the week of April 25-28, 2022 and has now adjourned. The 42nd Parliamentary Session will end on May 4, 2022

The Legislature did not sit the week of April 18 – 22, 2022 Therefore no change in bill status from the previous week

Here is what happened in the Ontario Legislature the week of April 11 – 14, 2022

Here’s what happened April 4 – 7, 2022 in the Ontario Legislature

Here is what happened this week in the Ontario Legislature.

The Ontario Bar Association continues to advocate for access to justice in all sectors and through this submission are proposing practical solutions to issues that are currently impeding access to clients incarcerated in Ontario’s Correctional Institutes.

Here’s what you need to know about what is happening at the Ontario Legislature this week.

The OBA provided this submission to the Law Society of Ontario regarding mandatory minimum compensation for experiential training for lawyer licensing candidates

The OBA provided a Letter to the MOE regarding access for emergency childcare for defence counsel in order to facilitate the efficient operations of the court.

This week in the Legislature the government made a number of COVID-19 related announcements including funding for mental health supports for first responders, and lifting capacity restrictions related to COVID-19.

The Legislature returned this week, after rising on December 9, 2021, for the winter break. Announcements related to COVID-19 continued to be the focus of government, including a review of COVID-19 vaccinations for long-term care workers, and examination of ending vaccination policies for workplaces. In other news, the province ended its state of emergency, and the Premier directed the LCBO to stop selling Russian products.

The OBA has sent a letter to the Minister of Finance in response to the province’s pre-budget consultation.

The OBA provided this submission to the Law Society of Ontario regarding the renewal of their Continuing Competence Framework

The OBA provided a submission in response to Legal Aid Ontario’s proposed changes to its minimum experience standards for prospective roster members.

The Legislature rose on Thursday this week, for the winter break.  It is scheduled to resume on February 22, 2022. Plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of government with announcements including, expansion of booster shots to all eligible Ontario adults beginning January 4 and investments in long-term care beds. In other news, the province announced funding for infrastructure projects in small, rural and northern communities.

This week in the Legislature, plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of government with announcements including, expansion of booster shots to those 50 and over, and investments in the hospital sector. In other news, and of interest to criminal lawyers and prosecutors, the Solicitor General announced expansion of the use of eIntake to Toronto courthouses and the Auditor General released her Annual Report.

This week in the Legislature, plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of government with announcements including, vaccination availability for children between 5-11 years old, and a new nursing degree at York University. In other news, the Auditor General released the Annual Report on Environment Audits and funding was announced for new schools and child-care spaces. On the legislative front, there was no new government legislation introduced this week.

This week in the Legislature, plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate with the government announcing the ability for pharmacies to provide COVID-19 testing for symptomatic people and providing students with take-home rapid testing kits over the holidays.

This week in the Legislature, plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the main focus of government. On Thursday, the Finance Minister, released the Fall Economic Statement (“FES”), which outlines the province’s economic plan in three areas; protecting Ontario’s progress against COVID-19, building Ontario and working for workers.

This week in the Legislature, plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the main focus of government.

This week in the Legislature, plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of government announcements including; access to ‘take home’ COVID-19 tests for children in public schools, and the province’s preparation to roll out vaccines to children aged 5-11 once vaccines are approved by Health Canada.

The OBA provided a submission in response to the Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial privacy protection authorities consultation on guidance for police agencies with respect to their use of facial recognition technology.

This week in the Legislature the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate with the stay-at-home order being lifted and the government announcing schools will not re-open in June for in person learning.  In other news, the government announced an investment in mental health services for children and youth.

The Legislature did not sit this week.  The government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate with the government publicly musing over reopening schools in certain regions as of May 31 and facing criticism for lack of a coherent plan. 

The OBA provided a submission to Legal Aid Ontario regarding the draft rules prepared by LAO pursuant to the Legal Aid Services Act, 2020.

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate with the government announcing an extended stay-at-home order for the province and cancelling the use of the Astra Zeneca vaccine as the first vaccine shot for individuals. 

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate with the government announcing the creation of mobile vaccine units for small and medium sized businesses in provincial hot spots.  With daily COVID-19 cases ranging between 2800 to 3400, the government continued to announce funding for COVID-19 priorities including funding for seniors struggling with COVID-19 related cognitive impairments. 

The OBA provided a submission to the Office of the Chief Justice of the Ontario Court of Justice outlining concerns about the delay arising from the special bail hearing procedure, and providing recommendations to reduce same.

The Legislature did not sit this week.  The government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of government announcements this past week including the Premier’s decision to once again enact a provincial emergency and stay-at-home order.  The government announced funding this week for a manufacturing plant that produces disinfectants to help against the spread of COVID-19 and the Toronto school boards switched to remote learning. 

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate with the government announcing a provincewide ‘emergency brake’ today, restricting in person activities.  The government announced funding this week for four hours of free legal advice for survivors of sexual assault commencing May 1, and $200M to support small business in Ontario’s tourism and hospitality industry impacted by the pandemic. 

This week in the Legislature, the government released the 2021-2022 budget.  The province’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate and government announcements, including announcements that restaurant staff would be added to the essential workers list for the purposes of earlier access to vaccines and funding for transportation to help seniors and people with disabilities reach vaccine centres. 

The OBA provided a submission to the Ontario Court of Justice outlining the challenges experienced with criminal virtual case management courts, and providing recommendations to improve the process.

The Legislature did not sit this week, as a result no new legislative matters proceeded. The government made a number of announcements to address ongoing concerns and impacts of COVID-19 including the launch of the online booking system for vaccine appointments for those over 80, investments in recruiting and training staff for long-term care homes and investments in new long-term care projects. 

The OBA provided a submission to the Standing Committee on the Legislative Assembly on Bill 245, Accelerating Access to Justice Act, 2021 (Schedules 8 & 9).

This week in the Legislature, the government marked the one-year anniversary of the World Health Organization declaration of COVID-19 as a Global Pandemic.  The province’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate and government announcements, including announcement that all Ontario residents will receive their first vaccination shot by June 20, investments in youth mental health and homelessness shelters.

The OBA provided a submission to the Standing Committee on the Legislative Assembly on Bill 245, Accelerating Access to Justice Act, 2021 (Schedule 3).

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate and the focus of government announcements including, a technical briefing on March 5, 2021 of vaccine roll outs. Notably, courts and justice system workers and youth justice workers will be included at the end of Phase 2.

The OBA sent a letter to the Solicitor General and the Attorney General outlining concerns about the Covid-19 situation in Ontario’s correctional facilities, and providing recommendations on steps to be taken to ameliorate same.

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be front and centre including an announcement of free tuition for 6000 new Personal Support Workers, and the announcement that Ontario will launch its online portal for booking COVID-19 vaccine appointments on March 15. 

The Legislative Assembly resumed sitting this week, after rising in early December, with a continued focus on the province’s COVID-19 response.  The government announced expansion of its Main Street Relief Grant and an investment in a new COVID-19 contract tracing device for workplaces.  On the legislative front, the government introduced Bill 245, Accelerating Access to Justice Act, 2021 an omnibus bill comprised of 11 schedules.  

The 42nd Parliament of Ontario, which began its Fall Sitting on September 14 rose on December 8, 2020, concluding a Fall Session which saw 26 government Bills passed with the primary focus remaining on curbing the continued spread and impact of COVID-19.

This week in the legislature the government remained focused on curbing the continued spread and impact of COVID-19. The government announced the creation of a Support for Learners program to provide additional financial support to parents and an investment in the tourism industry to support its ‘long-term sustainability’.  

This week in the legislature the government remained focused on curbing the continued spread of COVID-19 as Toronto and the Region of Peel were placed in a 28-day lockdown. The government announced holiday celebrations should only take place with family members and also announced the release of new technology allowing for COVID-19 rapid tests. The Auditor General released a special report this week criticizing the government for its handling of the pandemic.  

This week in the legislature the government remained focused on the continued spread of COVID-19 as it made plans for further restrictions in the hardest hit areas in the lead up to the holiday season.  The government announced the creation of a new agency to centralize government procurement of supplies and equipment to help during the pandemic and announced an investment in justice system mental health services. 

The Legislature did not sit this week, as a result no new legislative matters proceeded. The government made a number of announcements this week to address the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 including funding for building and renovating long-term care homes and more COVID-19 tests in the Peel Region. 

This week in the legislature the government released the province’s 2020 Budget and continued to be focused on COVID-19 related issues.  The government announced a new framework for monitoring and responding to the pandemic and faced criticism regarding a supply shortage of flu shots.

The 2020 Ontario Budget was released on November 5 at Queen's Park.  The Budget, originally scheduled for release in March, was postponed as the government focused its efforts on emergency management during the pandemic. 

This week in the legislature the government continued to be focused on COVID-19 related issues including funding in health care, education and housing supports.  The government faced scrutiny for proposing arts and science degree granting powers for the Canada Christian College under a COVID-19 omnibus bill. 

The OBA provided feedback to the Financial Services Tribunal on its two proposed practice directions on In-Person Hearings Covid-19 and Electronic Hearings while supporting fairness and access to justice principles.

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate and the focus of government announcements including, funding for mental health supports for children and youth and advising against ‘trick-or-treating’ on Hallowe’en.  

The Legislature did not sit this week, as a result no new legislative matters proceeded. Of interest to family lawyers, the Standing Committee on Justice Policy held public hearings on Bill 207, Moving Ontario Family Law Forward Act, 2020, at which the OBA appeared.  The government made a number of announcements this week to address ongoing concerns and impacts of COVID-19. 

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate and the focus of government announcements.  With COVID-19 daily cases continuing to be above 500 and a backlog in Ontario’s COVID-19 testing, the government came under fire for reluctance to put in place further restrictions on businesses and lack of preparedness for the second wave.

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate and the focus of government announcements.  With COVID-19 daily cases rising to the highest level since the outbreak occurred, the government focused on rolling out its plan for the second wave. On the legislative front, of particular interest to family lawyers, the Moving Ontario Family Law Forward Act, 2020 passed second reading. 

This week in the Legislature, the government’s plans to address COVID-19 continued to be the focus of debate and the focus of government announcements. 

The Legislature returned this week after adjourning on July 21.  The government introduced two pieces of legislation, Bill 202, Soldier’s Aid Commission Act, 2020 and Bill 204, Helping Tenants and Small Businesses Act, 2020. The main issues this week revolved around the government’s back to school plans and the rise in COVID-19 cases. 

The Legislature sat on Monday and Tuesday this week.  There were no new bills introduced.  The Legislature adjourned this week, for the session, and will return on September 14, 2020.

The Legislature sat on Monday through Wednesday this week this week.  No new bills were introduced, however the government brought motions to time allocate Bill 195, Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, 2020 and Bill 197, COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act, 2020, which were introduced last week. The motions would move the two bills to 3rd Reading next week, without committee hearings, when the legislature is scheduled to sit again on July 20th.

On Tuesday, the government introduced Bill 195, Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, 2020. The legislation allows for the government to continue the use of existing emergency powers otherwise restricted for use under a Declaration of Emergency. The current Declaration of Emergency was introduced on March 17th and has been renewed within each consecutive two week period.

The OBA submission raised three specific issues that it would like to see addressed with respect to the proposed Legal Aid Services Act in Bill 161: (1) Ensuring additional funding for court-ordered services currently covered directly by the Attorney General; (2) Clarifying a fair process regarding information disclosure for lawyers who represent LAO clients; and, (3) Clarifying proportional representation on the LAO Board.

As part of the provincial government’s pre-budget consultations, the OBA asked the government to commit to adequate and predictable funding for the legal aid system and ensure adequate funding of a comprehensive strategy that recognizes the prevalence of mental health issues for society’s most vulnerable who are served by lawyers in all areas of the legal aid system.

The Ministry of the Attorney General, in partnership with Legal Aid Ontario is currently engaged in the Legal Aid Ontario Modernization Project (“Project”). The mandate of the Project is to develop and implement reform proposals and legislative amendments that will contribute to moving the legal aid system towards sustainability and modernized service delivery to better meet the needs of low-income Ontarians through governance and service delivery improvements.

This submission is in response to the Law Society of Ontario's Access to Justice Committee's "Review of the Law Society's Access to Justice Approach: Call for Comment"

This submission is in response to the Ministry of the Attorney General's consultaiton on a proposed amendment to the Juries Act regarding accessibility of juror information. The OBA supports maintaining the privacy standards currently in place but enhancing the security around such privacy.

The Municipal Section has made a submission on proposed changes to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017. The submission supports timely, just and cost-efficient decisions, while bringing attention to the need of clairty in policies and process.

The OBA has responded to the LSO's Dialogue on Licensing (2018) consultation paper. The submission was prepared by the OBA Special Committee on Licensing with the input of the OBA Provincial Council.

The OBA responds to the LSO's consultation on Governance, relating to the size and composition of Convocation, other considerations that will to enhance governance effectiveness, as well as the terms, term limits and terminology proposed.

The OBA appreciates the opportunity to provide feedback to Justice Michael H. Tulloch, the Independent Reviewer of Ontario’s street checks regulation, O. Reg. 58/16.

The OBA provides a submission to the Law Society of Ontario regarding the good character inquiry and past dispositions of discharge.

The OBA is pleased to provide comments to the Standing Committee on Justice Policy in respect of Bill 175, the Safer Ontario Act, 2018.

The OBA provides a submission to the Minister of Finance regarding pre-budget consultations with individuals and organizations throughout the province.

The OBA wrote to the Law Society to reiterate the OBA’s unequivocal support for the CFRL Report and to identify failures to date in the implementation of the requirement for a Statement of Principles

The OBA provided a submission to the legislative committee considering Bill 84, Medical Assistance in Dying Statute Law Amendment Act, 2017. The Bill amends six acts in response to the Federal Criminal Code amendments and relevant case law dealing with medical assistance in dying ("MAID").

The Ontario Bar Association (“OBA”) appreciates the opportunity to comment on issues raised in the Law Society of Upper Canada (“Law Society”) Challenges Faced by Racialized Licensees Working Group (“Working Group”) Final Report “Working Together for Change: Strategies to Address Issues of Systemic Racism in the Legal Professions” (the “Final Report”).

The Ontario Bar Association appreciates the opportunity to provide input on the Law Society of Upper Canada Professional Development and Competence Committee report to convocation dated September 22, 2016 addressing the Pathways Pilot Project Evaluation and Enhancements to Licensing.

The Ontario Bar Association (“OBA”) is pleased to provide this submission to the Law Society of Upper Canada Task Force on Compliance-Based Entity Regulation in response to its Consultation Paper: “Promoting Better Legal Practices” (“the Consultation Paper”).

The Ontario Bar Association (“OBA”) appreciates the opportunity to participate in consultations with the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services (“the Ministry”), and comment on Ontario’s Draft Regulations for Street Checks (“Draft Regulations”).

The Ontario Bar Association (“OBA”) appreciates the opportunity to comment on the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services consultation for Ontario’s Proposed Regulation for Street Checks.

The Ontario Bar Association (the “OBA”) appreciates the opportunity to comment on the Ministry of the Attorney General’s consultation paper “Exploring an online Administrative Monetary Penalty System for infractions of provincial statutes and municipal by-laws in Ontario” (“the Consultation Paper”).

The Ontario Bar Association (“OBA”) is pleased to provide this update on our consideration of the issues raised by the Law Society of Upper Canada in “Alternative Business Structures and the Legal Profession in Ontario: A Discussion Paper” (the “Discussion Paper”)

The Ontario Bar Association (the “OBA”) appreciates the invitation from the Standing Committee on Justice Policy to address Bill 34, Security for Courts, Electricity Generating Facilities and Nuclear Facilities Act, 2012 (the “Bill 34” or the “Bill”).

The Ontario Bar Association (the “OBA”) appreciates the opportunity to provide input on an issue so fundamental to the future of the profession.

The Ontario Bar Association (“OBA”) appreciates the opportunity to comment on the Draft Third Party Processes Policy (the “Policy” or the “Draft Policy”) produced by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (“CPSO”).