In Toronto, various changes from federal, provincial, and municipal governments are set to take effect this year. These changes include increased Vitamin D levels in dairy products, new 407 ETR rates, and updates to recycling practices. Here’s a summary of what to expect:
Ontario is tightening regulations on impaired driving. Administrative licence suspensions will be extended, with first occurrence suspensions increasing from three to seven days and second occurrence suspensions from seven to 14 days. Mandatory remedial education will also be required for first-time alcohol or drug-related occurrences. Additionally, young and novice drivers caught with alcohol or cannabis in their system will face longer roadside licence suspensions.
The federal government is pushing for higher vitamin D consumption by doubling the required amount in cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and margarine. This initiative aims to address the deficiency affecting one in five Canadians.
Ontario is implementing new rules for job postings by employers with over 25 workers, requiring them to disclose compensation information and the use of artificial intelligence in hiring processes. Salary ranges must also fall within a specified $50,000 difference. Employers are prohibited from requesting Canadian work experience in job postings and must inform applicants of hiring decisions within 45 days of the final interview.
Starting January 1, Highway 407 ETR will introduce new toll rates, especially during peak rush hours. Some sections will see toll increases, impacting personal transponder customers with an average monthly cost hike of around $5.
Ontario is enhancing carbon monoxide safety measures, mandating working carbon monoxide alarms on every level of residences with gas-burning appliances. Previously, alarms were only required outside sleeping areas. These changes aim to reduce the risks associated with carbon monoxide poisoning, which causes an average of 50 deaths annually in Canada.
Recycling practices are also evolving, with Circular Materials taking over recycling bin collection for various residential and educational facilities. New accepted items in recycling bins include black plastic containers, beverage cups, juice containers, ice cream tubs, deodorant, and toothpaste containers.
Toronto residents will face increased water and waste fees in 2026, with a 3.75% interim rise in solid waste management services and water rates. The average household using 230 cubic meters of water annually can expect an additional $40 expense. Industrial water rate program participants will see a 1.25% rate increase.
Ontario is facilitating labor mobility for certified professionals like architects, engineers, and electricians through new “As of Right” regulations. These changes aim to streamline the process, allowing professionals to start working in Ontario within 10 business days of credential confirmation, while also enabling Ontarians in these fields to seek employment in other provinces.
