Summary

This bill, called the Plan to Protect Ontario Act (Budget Measures), 2025, updates many laws in Ontario. It aims to improve communication, change tax rules, and manage certain public lands and infrastructure. It also raises some fines for violations and clarifies rules about toll highways and automated enforcement systems. The bill will mostly take effect once passed and receive Royal Assent, but some parts have specific start dates.

What it means for you

• Notices about property assessments can be sent by email or other electronic means if you agree.
• The government will share land and property information more easily with certain entities for planning purposes.
• Municipalities are no longer allowed to create toll highways or charge tolls on roads like Highway 407 East.
• Certain fines for illegal tobacco, alcohol, and transport violations are increased, which could affect people involved in such activities.
• New rules will require signs and public information about automated traffic cameras used to enforce speed limits and red lights.
• Information about historical parks and properties may be managed differently, with funds set aside for maintenance.
• The government can borrow up to $27 billion for various purposes, including infrastructure and public projects.
• The bill also recognizes former members of the provincial government with new honorary titles, allowing them to use “The Honourable” and “E.C.O.” after their names.

Expenses

• The bill authorizes the government to borrow up to $27 billion; specific costs depend on actual borrowing needs. Data unavailable.
• Fines for violations related to tobacco, alcohol, and traffic enforcement are increased; additional revenue from fines is possible but not specifically quantified. Data unavailable.
• Changes to regulations about notices, investigations, and land management involve administrative costs; exact amounts unknown. Data unavailable.
• The bill simplifies some processes, which could reduce administrative costs, but overall fiscal impact data is unavailable.

Proponents' View

Supporters argue that these changes improve transparency and modernize government processes. Sending notices electronically makes communication more efficient and reduces costs. Eliminating toll highways and regulating automated enforcement keep infrastructure fair and safe. Raising fines aims to deter illegal activities such as illegal tobacco sales. Recognizing former government members honors public service, and borrowing powers help fund necessary projects.

Opponents' View

Critics note that increasing fines may disproportionately affect certain groups or over-penalize minor violations. Eliminating tolls on highways could reduce revenue needed for road maintenance or create funding gaps. Changes permitting easier disclosure of land and property data might raise privacy concerns. Borrowing up to $27 billion adds future debt, raising questions about fiscal responsibility. Additionally, some argue that these changes may benefit certain industries or interests at the expense of the public.