The Ontario government could soon revoke the state of emergency in the province while introducing some new legislation to extend some emergency orders.
The new legislation could be in place for up to two years and would allow the government to continue certain emergency orders related to large gatherings, business closures, and workplace management rules.
"While the declaration of emergency may come to an end shortly, the risk posed by COVID-19 is likely to be with us for some time to come," said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones. "This new legislation would provide the government with the necessary flexibility to ensure select tools remain in place to protect vulnerable populations, such as seniors, and respond to this deadly virus."
The Reopening Ontario legislation will be introduced at Queen's Park on Wednesday.
"If passed, the proposed legislation would allow us to chart a responsible path to economic reopening and recovery without putting all the progress we've made in fighting this virus at risk," said Premier Ford. "Even as we continue certain emergency orders under the proposed legislation to protect public health, we will always be a government accountable to the people of Ontario. That's why I will ensure ongoing updates are provided and that a report is tabled within four months of the anniversary of this proposed Act coming into force."
The government first declared an emergency on March 17, 2020. Current emergency orders are in effect until July 10, 2020.
If the new legislation is approved and the state of emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act is revoked it does not erase any emergency orders made by municipalities or public health units in the province.