Security at Queen’s Park cleared the public gallery on Monday so the final vote on Bill 60 could continue. Premier Doug Ford told the shouting demonstrators to “go find a job.” The Canadian Press
The Ford government moved ahead with its wide-ranging rental bill on Monday morning at Queen’s Park. The bill cleared its third reading during a heated session, as loud protests filled the public gallery and opposition members challenged the move at every turn. This vote brings the legislation one step away from becoming law.
Major changes target rental rules
Bill 60 introduces several updates that reshape Ontario’s rental system. The bill raises the amount landlords must pay if they want to move into a tenant’s home. It also shortens eviction timelines in certain cases. Critics say these changes put renters at greater risk during a time of rising housing pressure.
The legislation covers much more than rental rules. It blocks cities from cutting the number of traffic lanes. It creates new municipal water service corporations. It also changes how developers must follow planning rules. These broad additions brought more debate, but the rental provisions drew the strongest reaction.
Protesters interrupt final vote
As the final vote took place, protesters in the public gallery shouted at the government benches. Members of the tenant group ACORN Canada yelled, “People over profit.” Another person shouted, “You’re putting people on the streets.” Security staff removed individuals one at a time.
The protest followed a large weekend demonstration outside Queen’s Park. Many tenant groups said the government rushed the bill by skipping the usual committee stage, which allows public feedback.
Housing Minister Rob Flack responded to the concerns and said he heard the frustration, even if he did not share the same view. “I don’t dismiss anyone,” he said. “I understand they have a perspective, I may not agree with it all. I do not dismiss them all.”
Opposition says bill hurts renters
Opposition parties condemned the bill and warned it will not improve fairness at the Landlord and Tenant Board. They argued that renters will face more pressure while large developers gain more influence.
Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles said her party would continue to fight the bill. “We’re going to keep fighting and we’re going to keep making the point to the government,” she said. She added that the government often passes laws that face legal challenges later. She also said renters face growing fear about evictions and called on the government to repeal the bill.
Government prepares for next steps
With third reading complete, Bill 60 now waits for royal assent. If approved, the changes will come into force and could reshape rental rules across the province. Tenant groups plan to continue raising concerns. Government members say the bill aims to improve housing and planning systems.
The debate around Bill 60 shows deep divisions over how Ontario should handle housing shortages, rental protections, and development rules. Both sides expect the discussion to continue long after the bill becomes law.
