Menopause Awareness Day and Month Set

Summary#

Bill 142, the Menopause Awareness Act, 2026, would create a new Ontario law. It would proclaim October 18 as Menopause Awareness Day and October as Menopause Awareness Month each year. Its stated goal is to raise awareness and improve education and support; the bill does not require anyone to run awareness activities.

  • The dates would take effect when the Act receives Royal Assent.
  • The bill creates no office, program, fund, or new enforcement power.
  • It does not amend another Act or set duties for employers, health-care providers, or the public.

What it means for you#

  • General public: October and October 18 would have official awareness designations. The bill does not require people or organizations to mark them.
  • Workers and employers: The bill does not require workplace policies, accommodations, training, or other supports for people experiencing menopause.
  • Health-care providers: The bill does not require changes to treatment, services, or information they provide.

Money#

No cost information is in the available material.

  • The bill does not provide funding or authorize spending.
  • It does not set fees, fines, or payments.

What is unclear#

  • The bill does not say whether the government or any organization will lead or fund awareness activities.
  • It sets no requirements for education, workplace support, health-care services, or public reporting.
  • It does not define what activities would count as raising awareness or improving support.

Case for#

  • The bill appears intended to recognize menopause as an issue affecting health, work, and daily life.
  • Official awareness dates could give organizations and the public a regular opportunity to share information. That is a possible effect, not a result the bill guarantees.
  • The bill’s preamble says that menopause is often misunderstood and that people may lack information about symptoms, treatment, and support.

Case against#

  • The bill designates dates but does not require action, provide funding, or create services. Its practical effect may therefore be limited.
  • It does not specify who, if anyone, is responsible for education or support, or how progress would be measured.
  • A possible trade-off is that the bill recognizes the issue without changing the workplace or health-care conditions the preamble describes.