The Canadian Workforce: Legislative Response To COVID-19

The ongoing and mounting effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic on workers across the country have moved both federal and provincial governments to take steps to introduce legislation and other government programs aimed at protecting—and providing financial stability to—Canadian workers. Here is a summary of the initiatives that have been introduced to date.

What you need to know

• Provincial governments, including Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan, have amended their employment standards legislation to address the impacts of COVID-19 on employees. The amendments aim to protect the jobs of workers who self-quarantine or are required to take time away from work to care for a child or other individual affected by COVID-19.