On October 28, 2025, Bill 101, An Act to improve certain labour laws,1 received royal assent. Through this omnibus bill, Québec’s Labour Minister proposed significant reforms to grievance arbitration practices, along with numerous amendments to various workplace laws.
The most significant changes are undoubtedly those affecting the rules set out in the Labour Code (the “Code”) governing grievance arbitration, a dispute resolution process that has long been characterized by minimal formality.
A substantial portion of the amendments came into force on October 28, 2025. The other changes to the Code will take effect on October 28, 2026.
With these remaining provisions set to take effect soon and given the impact of Bill 101 on unionized employers, this bulletin provides an overview of the key changes and their practical implications. This bulletin will help employers better understand their new obligations under the Code and adjust to the legislative framework now in force.