Upcoming changes to Ontario employment law
In this article, we review four of the most noteworthy developments. As Premier Ford currently leads a majority government, it is expected that the changes listed below will all eventually become law.
Employment Standards
Ontario minimum wage increase proposal
On November 4, 2021, the Ontario government released the 2021 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review: Build Ontario plan which proposes raising the Ontario general minimum wage from $14.35 to $15.00 per hour, effective January 1, 2022.
Enforcing mandatory COVID vaccination policies
Many employers have introduced mandatory COVID vaccine policies that will take effect this month. I am being asked two main questions in relation to the implementation of this kind of policy. The first issue is whether to grant exemptions to the policy for religious or medical reasons. An employer has an obligation to consider the request but can request additional information in connection with the request. The onus is on the employee to show the reason for not getting vaccinated is a sincerely, freely and deeply held belief that is integrally linked to a person’s identity, self-definition and fulfilment.
