Background

Yesterday, Ontario MPPs returned to Queen’s Park for the start of the fall Legislative session.

Throughout the summer, the PCs pressed on with their “Protect Ontario” mandate, and are expected to continue this into the fall with key legislation to support priorities highlighted during the recent election. Members of Ford’s cabinet toured the province to showcase major investments to support public infrastructure, health, and local businesses. 

The Liberals, meanwhile, are starting this session without a leader. Bonnie Crombie stepped down following a September leadership review, and the party has since announced that it’s in the process of selecting a new leader. NDP leader Marit Stiles also underwent a leadership review at her party’s most recent convention and maintained her role as leader. 

Key Priorities

Trade & Economic Growth

Given the PC government’s mandate to Protect Ontario and its commitment to supporting the provincial economy, addressing economic growth and job creation is likely to remain a priority during this session. Unemployment has risen to 7.9% in Ontario as continued uncertainty with US trade has led to further job losses. Stellantis’ recent announcement that the company would be moving Jeep Compass production from Brampton to Illinois has reignited the issue in provincial debate. 

As the relationship between Canada and the US continues to change, Premier Ford has maintained his focus on putting Ontario first. Recently, this has included running a new anti-tariff ad campaign in the US. Ford has also hinted at coming legislation that’s aimed at bolstering the provincial economy, specifically focusing on cutting red tape to support made-in-Ontario products and industries. For example, three days ago, the province officially launched the “One Project, One Process” framework to speed up approval and permitting processes for mining projects in the province, and continue supporting the Ring of Fire. Beyond the 1P1P framework, the provincial government is also continuing to press the federal government to include more Ontario-based energy projects on its Major Projects list.

Crime

Rising concerns over public safety have put pressure on the government to demonstrate action when it comes to crime. Premier Ford and his cabinet have repeatedly emphasized their commitment to strengthening policing and cracking down on repeat offenders, with a specific focus on auto theft and related crimes. During the summer break, the provincial government introduced several new supports for victims and we can expect to see more movement on crime reduction into the fall, especially as the federal government promised new measures on criminal justice reform in the near future. 

Healthcare

Last week, the PC government signalled that healthcare will also remain a key focus during this new session. The government announced that it plans to introduce legislation to support workforce mobility and make it easier for skilled healthcare workers who trained outside of Ontario to work in the province. Additionally, the government is continuing to make progress towards its goal of connecting every resident on the Health Care Connect waitlist with a primary care provider, and confirmed that they are expected to reach this goal by their Spring 2026 deadline. 

What’s government saying?

“Our government will be ready to continue to deliver on our plan to protect Ontario and continue the work to make our province more competitive, more resilient and more self reliant.”

• Premier Doug Ford

What’s opposition saying?

“People are really worried … they don’t see the Premier doing what he promised, which was to fight back against the tariffs and prevent job losses.

• Marit Stiles, Ontario NDP leader

What’s Next?

Beyond delivering on key priorities, the government still needs to release a Fall Economic Statement by November 15, so we can expect a closer look into government spending in less than 30 days. On top of this, Premier Ford has consistently mentioned plans to ban municipal speed cameras and review school board governance models, which could see trustees removed. With legislation on both expected early in the session, this fall promises a packed agenda for Ontario’s government.