Ontario Proposes New Legislation to Reduce Red Tape

The Ontario government has introduced the Cutting Red Tape, Building Ontario Act, 2024. This proposed legislation is part of the Fall 2024 Red Tape Reduction package. If passed, it aims to simplify processes and reduce costs for businesses and individuals in Ontario.

The legislation includes over 60 initiatives designed to improve services and reduce costs. Key measures include freezing fees for driver tests, simplifying long-term care admissions, and reducing administrative requirements for brownfield redevelopment. Additionally, the act proposes regulatory changes to facilitate cross-provincial work for building officials and employs digital tools for infrastructure projects.

Since 2018, Ontario has implemented over 550 measures to reduce regulatory burdens, reportedly saving over $1 billion annually and 1.5 million hours in time. The government claims these efforts have supported economic recovery while maintaining safety and environmental standards.

The Ministry of Red Tape Reduction is also looking to amend the Modernizing Ontario for People and Businesses Act, 2020, to enhance the province's ability to measure the impact of government actions on individuals. The public is encouraged to submit ideas for further improvements via the Red Tape Portal.