Ontario Proposes Updates to Emergency Management Legislation

The Ontario government has introduced the Emergency Management Modernization Act, a legislative proposal aimed at updating the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA). This initiative seeks to enhance the province's ability to handle emergencies such as floods and wildland fires. The proposed changes are the first comprehensive updates to the EMCPA in over 15 years.

Key aspects of the proposed legislation include strengthening provincial leadership and coordination in emergency management. Emergency Management Ontario would be designated as the central hub for coordinating these efforts, streamlining communication and resource allocation. The legislation also emphasizes community-led approaches, allowing municipalities to develop emergency management programs tailored to their specific needs.

The proposal follows extensive consultations conducted by Emergency Management Ontario, which engaged with over 480 partners, including municipalities and First Nations communities, through 45 engagements and received 90 written submissions. The feedback was used to inform the legislative updates, incorporating best practices and lessons learned from past emergencies.

If passed, the legislation would clarify procedures for municipalities to declare local emergencies and request assistance. It builds on the Provincial Emergency Management Strategy and Action Plan introduced in 2023, which outlines measures to ensure communities across Ontario are prepared for emergencies.