- Full text of the Bill (with current status) and PDF
- Hansard from the introduction of the Bill
- Backgrounder and press release
A note on process: This Bill has been tabled in the legislature (First Reading). Following legislative debate at Second Reading stage (probably in the new year), Committee stage ordinarily includes opportunity for public participation in the legislative process. CRRU will keep you updated on developments. For further information on participation in the provincial legislative process see: How an Ontario Bill becomes Law and Participation in Committees.
Excerpts from the Bill preamble:
The Day Nurseries Act is the current statute governing child care in Ontario. Enacted in 1946, it does not reflect current evidence based best practices or standards of care. It does not align with the child care needs of today's families, nor is it adaptable to serve the needs of families in the future. The legislative framework that regulates child care must be updated and improved to strengthen oversight of the sector, to clarify when a licence is required, and to provide greater incentives to obtain a licence.
Establishing a system of responsive, safe, high quality and accessible child care and early years programs and services will support parents and families, and will contribute to the healthy development of children.
Research has indicated that the learning and development that occurs during a child's early years is critical. It can have a major bearing on a person's later achievements in school and in the workplace, and on overall health and well-being throughout a person's lifetime.
A strong system of child care and early years programs and services increases labour market attachment by supporting the diverse working circumstances of parents. Enabling parents' continued participation in the workforce would contribute to a stronger Ontario.
....
Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts...the Child Care Modernization Act, 2013.