Ontario Government to Introduce Job-Protected Leave for Adoptive Parents, Illness Recovery, and Expand Protections for Women in Trades
ETOBICOKE – The Ontario government is set to propose new legislation aimed at supporting families, protecting workers facing serious illnesses, and encouraging more women to join the skilled trades workforce. The announcement, made today by Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini, outlines measures designed to make Ontario a leader in worker protections and family support.
One of the key proposals includes a 16-week job-protected leave under the Employment Standards Act for adoptive parents and parents through surrogacy. This leave will give families the time needed to bond with and welcome their children, aligning with upcoming federal changes to employment insurance (EI) benefits for adoption.
“We want to ensure Ontarians never have to choose between being a worker or a parent,” said Piccini.
We are taking bold steps to support workers, women, and families with new proposed legislation.
From creating a 16-week job-protected leave for adoptive parents and surrogacy families, to ensuring properly fitting PPE for women in all trades, and introducing a 27-week… pic.twitter.com/4F5RXgoJHc
— David Piccini (@DavidPiccini) November 26, 2024
The legislation also seeks to introduce a 27-week job-protected leave for workers with serious medical conditions, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, or Crohn’s disease. If passed, it will be among the longest provincial leaves in Canada, allowing workers the time they need for treatment and recovery without fear of losing their jobs.
In a move to bring more women into the skilled trades, the government plans to expand the requirement for properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE) for women beyond the construction sector to all industries. This builds on provisions introduced in the Working for Workers Act, 2023, and reflects the government’s commitment to making workplaces safer and more inclusive.
“Tradeswomen are essential to Ontario’s workforce,” Piccini added. “We see you, we value you, and we can’t build Ontario’s future without you.”
Additional proposals include measures to ensure clean and accessible washrooms for workers, with increased employer accountability through documented cleaning records. These enhancements are part of a broader set of initiatives under the Working for Workers series, first launched in 2021.
The forthcoming legislative package aims to strengthen Ontario’s workforce, lower costs for workers and businesses, and support the well-being of families across the province.
Further details are expected in the coming weeks as the government continues its efforts to position Ontario as the best place to live, work, and raise a family.
Stay tuned to GTA Today for updates on this developing story.
