The Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce is welcoming the Ontario government's decision to scrap a planned minimum wage increase in the new year.
Doug Ford's Progressive Conservatives will keep it at $14 per hour instead of rising it to $15 as planned by the previous Liberal government.
Chamber President Shirley de Silva said the news is positive for businesses.
"Since we've always said it was too much too fast this, in a way, slows things down and it gives a chance for businesses to adjust," said de Silva. "It's a really excellent first step to help relieve the burden on small and medium-sized businesses."
de Silva said we saw a decline of over 80,000 jobs across the province last week.
She noted many businesses are dealing with a substantial decrease in staff hours and capital investment, and increased reliance on automation.
A recent survey found that 77 per cent of businesses said access to talent is critical to their competitiveness and de Silva said a balance needs to be found.
The Liberal Bill 148 included a minimum wage hike to $15 per hour by 2019, and addresses scheduling, temporary work, vacation time, and unionization.
The Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis has said the reforms would cost Ontario businesses $23 billion, put 185,000 jobs at risk, and increase the cost of goods and services by $1,300 per household.