Ontario employers will gain new flexibility to extend temporary layoffs beyond current limits while facing enhanced compliance measures under legislation introduced today that directly responds to economic pressures from U.S. trade policies.
The Working for Workers Seven Act, 2025, allows companies to maintain employment relationships with workers beyond the current 35-week temporary layoff limit during economic uncertainty. The measure aims to help employers and workers navigate potential disruptions from U.S. tariffs without severing employment ties.
“Our government is protecting Ontario workers by standing up for them when they need it the most,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “We’re proposing changes that will prepare workers and businesses for the jobs of the future, while helping workers facing impacts from U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty.”
Mass termination protections expanded
Companies conducting mass terminations must provide affected employees up to three unpaid days off to job search and access employment services. Employers must also inform terminated workers about provincial skills training and job search support programs.
The government plans to establish proactive Action Centres to support workers affected by U.S. tariffs, using data-driven approaches to provide rapid assistance during layoffs. The centres will focus on timely referrals to in-demand training programs, including micro-credentials.
Enhanced partnerships with Service System Managers, communities, unions, private sector partners and colleges will speed connections between displaced workers and retraining opportunities.
Job fraud crackdown addresses $15 million in losses
New measures target job opportunity fraud that cost Ontario workers $14.86 million in 2024, the highest losses among all Canadian provinces. National job scam losses reached $47 million according to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Job posting platforms must implement mechanisms to report fraudulent advertisements to help protect job seekers. The government will consult on additional protections for talent agents, managers and representatives.
The province will also examine employers’ access to electronic employee information, reviewing current practices and potential privacy restrictions that may require new requirements.
Immigration system gains flexibility for labour needs
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program receives significant reforms to respond more quickly to changing labour market demands. The Minister gains authority to establish or remove nomination streams based on current job market needs.
Applications that no longer match labour market requirements can be returned, allowing faster processing of stronger candidates. Inspectors can require in-person interviews with applicants to improve program integrity and prevent fraudulent claims.
A new employer portal launching summer 2025 will allow direct electronic application submissions, streamlining the process for businesses seeking foreign workers.
WSIB compliance enforcement strengthened
Employers who provide false information, hide payroll records or skip WSIB payments face enhanced enforcement measures. The crackdown aims to ensure injured workers receive proper support while making sure all employers pay their fair share into the system.
“The Ontario Trucking Association applauds Minister Piccini for introducing Working for Workers Seven, which includes critical measures to enhance protections for workers across the province,” said Stephen Laskowski, President and CEO of the Ontario Trucking Association. “Strengthening compliance with the WSIB is a significant step toward ensuring all employers meet their responsibilities.”
Construction safety and training measures
The legislation requires automated external defibrillators on construction projects with 20 or more workers expected to last three months or longer. The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board will reimburse constructors for AED purchases to offset compliance costs.
Construction industry data shows more than 15 percent of inspection reports involving cardiac events occurred in the construction sector, prompting stakeholder recommendations for mandatory AEDs during Working for Workers Five consultations.
Public infrastructure projects must treat Chief Prevention Officer-accredited health and safety management systems as equivalent in procurement processes. A new Administrative Monetary Penalty regime under the Occupational Health and Safety Act will support enforcement.
Skills training acceleration
Construction of training centres supported by the Skills Development Fund Capital Stream will accelerate through exemptions from certain planning permits and approval requirements. The province increases funding for mobile training programs to expand skilled trades access for youth.
The government will consult on prioritizing apprentice hiring in public infrastructure projects to create more job opportunities and support on-the-job learning.
“Skills Ontario applauds the Ontario government’s continued investment in the skilled trades,” said Ian Howcroft, CEO of Skills Ontario. “We’re proud to partner on initiatives like the expanded Trades & Tech Truck Program, giving more young people hands-on opportunities to explore rewarding careers.”
The comprehensive legislation contains 18 proposed measures and builds on six previous Working for Workers acts, with the most recent receiving Royal Assent in December 2024.
