Human Resources Legislative Update
Ontario Government Announces $11 Billion in Relief Measures for Workers and Businesses Amid Economic Uncertainty Due to U.S. Tariffs
Date: April 9, 2025
On April 7, 2025, the Ontario announced approximately $11 billion in relief and support for workers and businesses to protect the province’s economy from economic uncertainty and the impact of U.S. tariffs.
The measures announced are as follows:
Tax Deferral Program
Ontario is granting relief to businesses remitting taxes under Ontario’s 10 business-focused tax programs, including the Employer Health Tax, Insurance Premium Tax, Gasoline Tax, Fuel Tax, Mining Tax, Tobacco Tax, International Fuel Tax Agreement, Beer, Wine & Spirits Tax, the Retail Sales Tax on Insurance Contracts and Benefit Plans and the Race Tracks Tax.
Cash Flow Support
The government is providing up to $9 billion in cash flow support to approximately 80,000 Ontario businesses by offering six months of interest and penalty relief will allow those businesses to temporarily delay payments for select provincially administered taxes.
Deferral Period
The six-month period begins April 1, 2025, and ends October 1, 2025. All taxes owed must be paid by October 1, 2025. During this period, businesses will not face interest charges or penalties on deferred tax payments, providing temporary financial relief during economic uncertainty.
WSIB Surplus Rebate
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) surplus rebate announced last November returned $2 billion in surplus funds to Ontario businesses. Eligible businesses who are safe employers received their distribution amount in March of this year.
The WSIB is now issuing a further $2 billion rebate for safe employers in addition to the previous distribution. (For more information on rebate eligibility, see our related Human Resources Legislative Update.)
Apprenticeship Support
Last year, the government eliminated the $150 fee for apprentices taking their first Certificate of Qualification exam. This initiative aims to reduce financial barriers for individuals entering the skilled trades workforce.
Health and Safety Programs
The province has committed $400 million in health and safety programs for workers and employers developed by the WSIB. These programs aim to improve workplace safety and provide resources for both employers and employees.
For more information about these relief measures or for assistance with related matters, please contact your regular Hicks Morley lawyer.
The article in this client update provides general information and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. This publication is copyrighted by Hicks Morley Hamilton Stewart Storie LLP and may not be photocopied or reproduced in any form, in whole or in part, without the express permission of Hicks Morley Hamilton Stewart Storie LLP. ©
