The Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario is celebrating the speedy passage of a major Bill they say cuts red tape and helps attract the next generation of automotive skilled trades workers.
In a news release, the MVRO said Bill 190 unanimously passed third and final reading in the Ontario Legislature on October 28. It is the first Bill to become law since the Legislature reconvened last week. Bill 190, the Working for Workers Five Act, 2024, was introduced by David Piccini, the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
“The swift passage of Bill 190 into law underscores Minister Piccini’s determination to cut red tape and make it easier for those wanting to enter the skilled trades,” said Frank Notte, Director of Government Relations for the MVRO, in a statement.
The Bill allows the use of “alternative criteria” (a term that will be defined once the regulation is created) that will be deemed equivalent to current academic standards. It also extends authority to the Registrar of Skilled Trades Ontario (STO) or another qualified person to assess whether the “alternative criteria” have been satisfied.
“This would allow STO to have the authority to assess the competency of prospective skilled trade workers wanting to enter the workforce,” said the MVRO in its announcement. They believe the STO is well equipped for this responsibility “as they are the one-stop shop for licensing and regulating the trades.
“We congratulate Minister Piccini for getting Bill 190 across the finish line and look forward to continuing our work with him to support the next generation of automotive technicians,” said Notte.
