Actions tracking

Adopt a risk-based approach to inspections under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act

Status: Action tracking

What we heard

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act should be enforced; however, convenience store inspections under the act should be more risk-based. Any money saved should be spent on prevention and education activities.

Our plan

As part of the modernization of the Smoke-Free Ontario Strategy, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care will consider various options including a risk-based enforcement model.

Update as of October 31, 2017: In October 2017, the Smoke-Free Ontario Modernization: Report of the Executive Steering Committee, was released and includes advice and recommendations to reduce smoking rates across the province. The province is reviewing the recommendations and will continue to work with key experts and advisors to determine the most appropriate action.

The ministry is also modernizing the Ontario Public Health Standards for Public Health Units and is considering a risk-based approach for tobacco control.

No action recommended

Review enforcement processes around Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario regulations

Status: No action recommended

What we heard

The current regulatory approach to enforcement under the Alcohol Gaming Commission of Ontario is making it difficult for bars and nightclubs to operate.

Our plan

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) works collaboratively with its policing partners to promote compliance with liquor laws to help:

  • maintain public safety
  • the responsible sale and service of alcohol
  • reduce impaired driving

The AGCO employs a risk-based compliance approach that prioritizes public safety and strategically focused resources where they will make the most difference. Risk-based compliance, education and training materials are meant to support stakeholders in meeting their compliance requirements in the most efficient manner.

In addition, AGCO has a progressive approach to enforcement and does not automatically apply penalties for non-compliance. Instead, the AGCO works with the licensee to address the issue before a monetary penalty is imposed. Funds from monetary penalties are used exclusively to develop awareness programs, as well as targeted education for licensees.

The AGCO is committed to continually reviewing approaches to best achieve compliance and protect public safety, while remaining sensitive to the economic viability of the alcohol industry.

Review the need for ongoing licence plate renewals

Status: Action tracking

What we heard

Drivers question the need to renew their vehicle plate sticker every few years, as this does not prove that the car is safe or that the driver is competent. Also, there are already laws that require drivers to have insurance and update their address with the Ministry of Transportation.

Our plan

Revenue from licence plate renewals supports the ongoing maintenance of the province’s highway infrastructure, which contributes to Ontario having among the safest in North America. Licence plate renewals are required to ensure that a vehicle is valid for legal operation on the road and to verify vehicle insurance is in place. In addition, the licence plate renewal verifies that fees have been paid, emissions tests have been completed for the vehicle, and any outstanding fines from driver and vehicle offences have been collected.

Ontario’s road safety measures currently include Ontario’s Graduated Licensing System, which lets new drivers gain skills and experience in low-risk environments and to learn the rules of the road along with practical driving tips. And, when drivers reach the age of 80 years old, they must attend a renewal session before their driver’s licence is renewed. This can result in taking a driver’s test, depending on how well they performed on the in-class screening components, and a review of their driving record. These, and other road safety programs, help keep drivers safe and Ontario’s roads among the safest in North America.

ServiceOntario, in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation, continues to streamline the online licence plate renewal experience to make it faster and easier.