I agree with reputable…

I agree with reputable conservation and environmental organizations in Ontario who oppose the Special Economic Zones Act, 2025 (SEZA). It would give the government unrestricted discretion to authorize resource development without regard for environmental protections, Indigenous communities and labour standards.
The Act is weighted too heavily on economic benefits to the detriment of long-established laws and policies that have enhanced the quality of life in our province. In fact, Ontario's economic competitiveness depends on maintaining the environmental and social regulations and standards that make the province a leader across the country and beyond.
If the SEZA is not repealed, the regulations for criteria must be revised to promote good governance and avoid the potential for corruption by limiting political discretion. This means limiting the discretion of the Minister and the Lieutenant Governor in Council to decide whether designation criteria have been met. Instead, the government should employ an evidence-based approach where criteria are clearly defined, transparent and measurable. Oversight mechanisms would increase public participation.
The regulations should also respect and uphold Indigenous rights and sovereignty. Indigenous participation should be meaningful and steps should be taken to ensure equitable benefit sharing.
Finally, the government should remove the threat of SEZs operating outside of the law. The draft regulation that would allow the province to decide, what if any, laws apply to designated projects or proponents within an SEZ should be removed.
Thank you.