Bill 67, Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day Act, 2025
## Summary
This Ontario bill would create an annual day to thank and recognize hospitality workers. It sets February 23 each year as Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day.
- Names a specific day to honor people who work in restaurants, hotels, event venues, catering, and related services.
- The day is symbolic. It does not create a day off, bonus pay, or new legal rights.
- Encourages public messages, events, and recognition by the province, cities, employers, and community groups.
- Takes effect as soon as it becomes law.
## What it means for you
- **Hospitality workers**
- You may see public thanks, social media posts, and workplace events on February 23.
- No automatic paid time off or extra pay is included.
- Could help raise pride in your work and public awareness of your role.
- **Employers (restaurants, hotels, venues, caterers)**
- A set date to run appreciation events, promotions, or staff awards.
- Opportunity for marketing and hiring outreach tied to the day.
- No new mandates or reporting requirements.
- **Residents and customers**
- You may see province-wide campaigns encouraging people to thank hospitality workers or support local businesses.
- Community events or discounts may be offered, at the choice of businesses.
- **Local governments and community groups**
- Option to issue proclamations, host events, or partner with schools and tourism boards.
- No required programs are created by the bill.
## Expenses
No publicly available information.
## Proponents' View
- Recognizes a large workforce that often goes unnoticed, boosting morale and respect.
- Encourages residents to support local restaurants, hotels, and events, which could help the local economy.
- Provides a simple, low-cost way for the province and communities to celebrate service workers.
- Helps promote tourism by highlighting the people who make visitor experiences possible.
## Opponents' View
- The day is symbolic and does not address pay, benefits, or working conditions.
- Could be seen as “feel-good” recognition without concrete support for workers.
- Any government messaging or events, while small, still use time and resources.
- Businesses may feel social pressure to participate even though there is no requirement.