Canada: Compliance Update: Major Changes Arrive for Employee Benefits in Ontario, Canada

Canada: Compliance Update: Major Changes Arrive for Employee Benefits in Ontario, Canada Effective dates: now through 2019

Ontario’s Employment Standard Act (ESA), and their Labour Relations Act (LRA), were amended with Bill 148’s passing on November 27, 2017. Changes have varying effective dates and implications. Areas of particular importance include:

  • Independent contractor and employee distinctions.
  • Extensions of unpaid parental and critical illness leave.
  • Increased minimum wage.
  • Increased vacation time for employees with more than five years of service.
  • Extended leaves of absence.

Jacqui Fritsch, Senior Consultant of International Benefits for Asinta’s Canadian Partner, Cowan Insurance Group says, “These changes bring significant budgetary concerns to employers.” She adds, “Employers also a need to ensure that they have clear, concise leave of absence policies and reporting procedures in place.”

More detailed information about these changes is covered on the SHRM website.

Need assistance with benefits compliance in Canada?

We’d be happy to help by putting you in touch with our Canadian Partner Cowan Insurance Group.