Province Rolls Back Planned Changes to Social Assistance

October 3, 2019

The Province announced that it would no longer be proceeding with previously planned cuts and changes to social assistance. The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services informed municipalities and DSSABs that, after careful consideration:

• The $67 million Transition Child Benefit, originally set to be eliminated on November 1, will continue to be delivered at its current levels.

• The Province will no longer be moving forward with planned changes to earning exemptions for Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program, instead maintaining current earning exemptions for the time being. 

While these programs will be maintained for the time being to provide continuity of services, the Province has indicated that it will continue to focus on its broader plan to review and improve social assistance and employment programs. 

The announcement is being lauded by many in Ontario's municipal sector as a positive step and an indication that the Province has listened to the concerns raised by municipalities and other key stakeholders. 

OMSSA echoes these sentiments and looks forward to continuing to work with the Province as it proceeds with its review of social assistance and employment programs. 

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Read more

• Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services website
• CBC News, "Ford government rolls back planned cuts to child benefit, other social assistance"
• Toronto Star, "Ford government cancels planned cuts to social assistance payments"
• Toronto Star, "Reversal of provincial welfare cuts hailed as victory for municipalities and advocates"