Ontario municipal councillors might soon lose their positions if they violate a code of conduct, following a provincial bill that was approved today.
Municipalities and advocates have long pushed for tougher penalties for councillors who break the rules, including those related to workplace harassment. Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Rob Flack hopes to implement these new regulations before the municipal elections in October.
The new legislation permits the provincial government to establish a standard municipal code of conduct. This means all 444 municipalities will follow the same guidelines, with penalties that could include removal or disqualification from office in cases of serious violations.
However, such actions can only occur if recommended by the municipal integrity commissioner, agreed upon by Ontario’s integrity commissioner, and unanimously approved by councillors excluding the member in question during a vote.
Emily Mc Intosh, founder of the advocacy group Women of Ontario Say No, believes this new law is an important first step toward better protection for women in local politics.
Liberal Stephen Blais previously led efforts on a similar private member’s bill years ago. He states that while this new law will create positive changes, it should be strengthened to give councils more options when dealing with troublesome councillors.
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