The Ontario government has reintroduced the Resource Management and Safety Act, 2025, aiming to enhance public safety by addressing the risks associated with hazardous oil and gas wells.
The proposed amendments to the Oil, Gas, and Salt Resources Act would empower the Ministry of Natural Resources to take immediate action on wells posing safety threats, especially in cases where operators are non-compliant due to circumstances like death or bankruptcy.
This initiative reflects Ontario’s commitment to safeguarding communities and the environment from potential dangers linked to deteriorating energy infrastructure.
Beyond oil and gas well management, the legislation also seeks to modernize wildfire prevention strategies, attract more land surveyors to support housing development, and regulate geologic carbon storage technology.
These comprehensive measures underscore the province’s dedication to balancing environmental protection with economic growth and infrastructure development.