A range of new laws and regulations took effect across Ontario on Jan. 1 which brought changes that affect job seekers, employers, healthcare workers, landlords, tenants, and homeowners.
One of the most significant updates involves new pay transparency rules. Employers with 25 or more workers will be required to include an expected salary or pay range in publicly advertised job postings. The range cannot be wider than $50,000, and most forms of compensation, including bonuses and commissions, must be disclosed. Employers must also say whether artificial intelligence is used in hiring and whether a posting represents a real vacancy. Interviewed candidates must be notified of hiring decisions within 45 days.
Ontario is also moving ahead with so-called “As of Right” rules to improve free trade and labour mobility within Canada. Goods and services approved in other provinces will be recognized in Ontario, reducing red tape for businesses. Skilled professionals such as doctors, engineers, and electricians will be able to start working in Ontario within 10 business days while completing registration, a move aimed at improving access to healthcare and other services.
At the federal level, the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act will also take effect, allowing provincially licensed workers and compliant products to meet comparable federal requirements.