Prompt Payment Act passes second reading with unamimous support

Bill 69, Prompt Payment Act, 2013 passed second reading and debate on Thursday, May 16 with unanimous support from all MPPs and from all three political parties in the Ontario legislature. The unprecedented support came after 50 minutes of debate with 10 speakers from all  three political parties speaking in favour of the legislation with construction industry representatives present in the visitors’ gallery.

 “The construction industry faces an ongoing issue of late payment for construction work completed and this has adverse effects on the industry and the broader economy as a whole, “said Alison Smith of the Barrie Construction Association. “General contractors and trade contractors working on construction projects deserve to be paid in a timely fashion for work they have completed.”

Bill 69 has now been referred to the Standing Committee on Regulations and Private Bills where it will undergo a public consultation process. The committee stage is an important final step before a bill can be called to third and final reading. If passed, Ontario would be the first jurisdiction in Canada to have adopted prompt payment legislation for the construction industry.

“I’m delighted and honoured to have the support of all three parties on my first private members legislation that deals with an industry that is of crucial importance to Ontario’s economy and of great personal significance to me,” said Steven Del Duca, the MPP for Vaughn. “I look forward to the committee stage to consult with industry leaders and members of the public to ensure this important bill gets sent to third and final reading and becomes law.”  

“Prompt payment legislation is based on the fundamental principle that everybody deserves to get paid on time,” said Ashley De Souza, COCA vice-president policy and government relations. “COCA is thrilled to see support across all political parties for prompt payment and we look forward to continuing to work with all MPPs and our industry partners to ensure Ontario becomes the first jurisdiction in Canada to adopt prompt payment legislation.”