5 NEW Things In Ontario For 2020
NEW LAWS AND CHANGES FOR 2020
As we usher in another decade, a number of new laws and rules will come into effect in 2020 that may have an impact on your way of life.
CANADA-WIDE
1 ) Federal tax changes
The basic amount most Canadians can earn tax-free is going up on Jan. 1, to $13,229. The increase is being phased in over 4 years until it reaches $15,000 in 2023.
For Canadians in the lower income brackets, the changes could result in tax savings of up to $140 in 2020. For those earning more than $150,473 annually, those savings will be clawed back or not offered at all.
ONTARIO
2) No more out-of-country health insurance coverage
The Ontario government’s move to scrap its out-of-country health insurance takes effect on Jan. 1. This means that Ontarians who fall ill while travelling can no longer claim the $400 a day maximum coverage for inpatient emergency care and the $50-a-day maximum allowed for emergency outpatient services (such as an MRI or a CAT scan) that, until now, were provided by OHIP.
The provincial government has defended its decision by saying that the OHIP coverage was minimal and “inefficient,” given the high cost of medical care abroad – and especially in the United States — that usually requires private travel insurance.
3) E-scooters on roads
As part of a five-year pilot project, the Ontario government will let municipalities decide whether to allow e-scooters on their roads.
Operating e-scooters is currently only allowed on private property in the province. The pilot project started January 1st. E-scooter drivers will have to be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet.
4) Restrictions on advertising vaping products
On Jan. 1, Ontario will ban the promotion of vaping productss in convenience stores and gas stations, in response to growing concerns about the health effects of vaping on young people.
The province will still allow vaping to be promoted in specialty stores and cannabis shops, which are only open to those aged 19 and older.
5) Dogs on restaurant patios
Starting Jan. 1., Ontario will give restaurants and bars the option to allow dogs on their patios.
