There have been recent significant changes or proposed changes to Canadian legislation that may impact on franchisors and franchisees that operate in Ontario and Alberta.
- Alberta Consumer Protection – In January 2018, Alberta’s Consumer Protection Legislation was significantly overhauled. The changes impact arbitration clauses in consumer agreements, the amendment of substantive terms in consumer transaction, high-cost credit products, auto sales and repairs, negative reviews, and ticket sales. We have issued a news release on these changes.
- Ontario Gift Cards – On January 19, 2018, the Ontario Ministry of Government and Consumer Services issued a consultation paper, seeking feedback on proposed changes to the gift card rules in the Consumer Protection Act (Ontario). Our discussion of these proposed changes can be found here.
- Ontario Construction Liens – On December 12, 2017, the Construction Lien Act Amendment Act, 2017 became law in Ontario. It implements substantive amendments to the current Construction Lien Act (Ontario) and the scheme for how construction projects will operate in Ontario. The most substantive amendments in the legislation will not come into force until a later date (anticipated in early 2018). This is a summary of the key amendments.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Suhuyini Abudulai (regarding Consumer Protection and Gift Card issues) or Matthew Alter, or Robyn Blumberg (regarding Construction Liens issues).