New Year, New Laws - Diamond and Diamond Lawyers
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New Year, New Laws

New Year, New Laws

The new year brings new laws.  Starting January 1st, many Ontario residents will be impacted by new laws and amendments. Sandra Zisckind, Diamond & Diamond Personal Injury Lawyers, takes a look at some of these changes and how they may impact you.

Amendments to the Smoke-Free Ontario Act (the Act) prohibit smokers from indulging in certain public areas, restaurant and bar patios and from purchasing on university and college campuses. To expand, the Act no longer allows smoking on playgrounds, publicly owned fields (including: basketball courts, baseball diamonds, soccer fields and ice rinks) and uncovered/covered patios at restaurants and bars. Smoking on these properties may face finds of up to $250 while selling tobacco on school property may lead to a $300 fine. A full list can be found here.

The Ontario government enacted a law, known as Bill 15, that require tow truck owners/operators to register with the Commercial Vehicle Operator Registration starting on the 1st . In an effort to reduce price gouging, tow truck drivers are required to post prices, accept credit card payments and provide invoices (increasing transparency). In addition, tow operators are no longer allowed to work more than 13 hours / day or 60 hours / week. Tow truck drivers are not happy with the bill, arguing that hourly limits may impact their ability to earn a living. Many drivers choose to work longer hours during winter months (due to increased demand). This may result in longer response times and price increases for the average Ontario resident.

Ontario’s building code will undergo changes come January 1st. In 2015, all fire alarms and smoke detectors in multi-unit residential buildings must include a visual element for the deaf and hearing impaired. There have been additional changes as well to improve accessibility. All multi-unit residential buildings will now be required to include power-door operators for common elements (such as parking lots, washrooms and lobbies). More information can be found here.

The above are just a few examples to changes in law that may impact the day-to-day life of the average Ontario resident.

The lawyers of Diamond and Diamond wish everyone a safe 2015.

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