Many employees have questions and concerns regarding the new minimum wage and employee protections. Businesses may also wonder how the government plans to enforce these regulations. In Ottawa, a labour council is taking steps to give employees options if their employer is not abiding by the new regulations.
As of Jan. 1, 2018, a new Ontario business law requires employers to pay a minimum of $14 per hour, an increase in the rate of $2.40. In 2019, this will increase to $15 per hour. Some businesses have chosen to offset this new cost by reducing benefits, paid breaks and other perks. The Ottawa and District Labour Council has decided to set up a hotline where employees of companies choosing to make these cuts can inform the public of this activity. ODLC will be sharing the information from the calls on social media as part of the campaign.
The move is just part of the recent controversy surrounding the implementation of the new minimum wage. Businesses are responding in a variety of different ways to the new laws, with some supporting the move while others scramble to adjust their prices and business models. Consumers are also chiming in, with some choosing to avoid businesses who cut benefits as a result of the new minimum wage.
Besides the minimum wage changes, Ontario employers also must follow new laws on sick days, shift scheduling and compassionate leave. Both businesses and employees may have business law questions resulting from Ontario’s new regulations. Finding a lawyer is important for those looking to understanding regulations and deal with any legal issues that may arise.
Source: CBC News, “‘Minimum wage bully hotline’ launched by Ottawa labour council“, Joe Lofaro, Jan. 5, 2018
