Employee Benefits & Bill 148UncategorizedFebruary 23, 2018In the wake of Tim Hortons’ announcement that they were cutting back the employee benefits for their front line workers because of the January 1 minimum wage hike, the Ontario government has doubled down on their stance of protecting workers rights and supporting “fairness” in the workplace. Labour Minister Kevin Flynn announced in a press conference some of the initiative the government can take to prevent the violation of workers’ rights, such as: Instituted changes that will make it easier for workers to get the money they are owed. This includes streamlined collection methods and the ability of the Ministry to impose interest on monies owed to workers. Increased penalties for employers who contravene the Employment Standards Act. For the first time ever, the Ministry of Labour can, by law, publish the names of employers who break the rules. Stepping up enforcement to make sure all new rules are followed, including the hiring of up to 175 new employment standards officers. This is to ensure that claims are resolved within 90 days, and allows for officers to inspect one in ten Ontario workplaces proactively every year. “We knew when we unveiled Bill 148 that there’d be a reaction from some businesses. The minimum wage, I don’t believe ever in history, has been raised without the business community raising a fuss or concerns,” Flynn told reporters. “For some businesses to take it out on their workers, however, is completely unacceptable. And it’s simply wrong. It’s the act of bullies that has no place in this province.” “No Ontarian should live in poverty if he or she works 35 to 40 hours per week, Flynn continued, noting that about one-third of Ontarians earn less than $15 per hour. Of those, over half are between the ages of 25 and 64, a time when many people are raising families, the minister said, “and you just don’t do that on $11.60 an hour.” For a full summary of the changes see Bill 148 (The Fair Workplace and Better Jobs Act). If you are a business owner and are worried about your business’ employee benefits coverages, feel free to contact one of our insurance broker representatives to discuss your options at (416)494-1268.