Blue Box, cannabis, deficit on Ford government’s agenda after 21-week break
While the hiatus allowed the government to avoid scrutiny during Question Period, opposition parties say a number of issues have built up over the summer and fall.
After a 21-week break, Ontario's Ford government plans to tackle the Blue Box recycling program, streamline archaeological approvals, and enforce cannabis laws as legislators return to Queen's Park. Premier Doug Ford delayed the legislature's return to Oct. 27 to avoid election campaign distractions. Opposition parties claim there are various issues to grill the Progressive Conservatives on, such as the suspension of the OSAP program for private career college students and potential fraud in the aid program.
The Progressive Conservatives' $8.7 billion plan to bolster steel, auto, and critical mineral industries has been criticized as a mere reaction to Trump's tariffs, lacking a mitigation strategy. During the first week back in the legislature, Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy will deliver the Fall Economic Statement, projected to increase the deficit beyond $13.8 billion.
The government plans to cut spending while maintaining fiscal capacity for the tariff dispute. The ministry revealed they've only spent $140 million of their $1 billion Protect Ontario fund, drawing criticism from opposition parties. Additionally, the Ford government will fast-track archaeological assessments, aiming for an 80% reduction in processing time, and expand the Alcohol and Gaming Commission's authority to combat illegal cannabis production.
More significant changes could involve the Blue Box program, aiming to bring transparency and accountability to the system by regulating producers' contract terms with recycling organizations.
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