New help for small business

For immediate release: November 30, 2020 

Queen’s Park – MPP Toby Barrett stood in the Ontario Legislature to stand up for small business and speak in support of Bill 215, the Main Street Recovery Act, which is proposed legislation that would modernize regulations and remove unnecessary and costly barriers to help more small businesses recover from the economic effects of COVID-19 – and prepare them for new opportunities. 

“Small businesses are looking for hope. They’re looking for action on key words often heard from us like “recovery” and “rebuild,”” stated MPP Barrett. “This legislation is also a business plan that is actionable and can empower people to make it through the winter and come out in the coming year in a much healthier position.” 

These changes will help more businesses rapidly adapt to new demands resulting from the pandemic by modernizing regulations to allow them to pivot and take advantage of new opportunities to increase revenues, while strengthening strategic supply chains and promoting innovation.  

“So many businesses have gotten by without setting up websites. But with Covid, that has changed.  They have to pivot,” Barrett explained during debate. “The Digital Main Street Squad component of this legislation helps proprietors quickly access professional developers, instead of spending months sorting through various providers and quotes, which I’ve been told can range from $500 to thousands.”  

In response to the need for personal protective equipment (PPE), $60 million will be available in one-time grants of up to $1,000 for eligible main street small businesses with fewer than 10 employees to help offset these unexpected costs. 

Modern regulations with focused and effective rules are improving existing standards to keep Ontario workers and families healthy and safe—and protect our environment and the public interest. Smarter regulations that use digital pathways where possible are also easier and faster to comply with, so that businesses can invest their precious time and money in safety measures and rehiring.  

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For more information on the Main Street Recovery Act, please contact Toby Barrett, MPP  

at toby.barrett@pc.ola.org