The charge of driving while distracted has moved to $600, and using smart glasses, smartwatches while driving is considered to be distracting and gets hefty fines of the payment for it. After that the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)—including lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control—- all together is to be mandatory on the vehicles that are to be manufactured from july onward. The vehicles that are already on the road will not need it, but there for sure are added benefits for doing voluntary upgrades.
An Update to Employment Law: Increasing Protections for Workers
The current changes to Canadian labor laws have introduced new protections for gig workers, expanded digital platform workers’ access to minimum wage employment and other benefits, and introduced greater accountability on workplace safety, pay equity transparency, and reporting workplace safety incidents, all taking effect in 2025.
Key Law Changes in 2025
| Category | Old Regulation | New Regulation (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| BAC Limit | 0.08 | 0.05 nationwide |
| Distracted Driving Fine | $250-$400 | $600+ for repeat offenses |
| Study Permit Cap | 485,000 | 437,000 |
| ADAS in New Vehicles | Optional | Mandatory |
| Gig Worker Protections | Independent | Employee status |
Governments, like British Columbia, have eliminated the “Canadian experience” job requirement and other barriers to attain greater employment for internationally trained professionals. Quebec’s changes means firms with over 25 employees have to comply with French speaking rules. All employers in the country still need to institute stronger workplace policies to prevent violence for all employees and clear abuse of confidential information policies in harassment cases.
Education: Fresh Barriers and Ministry Requirements
Those who are in the process of changing programs are no longer eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. The Student Direct Stream is no longer available. This Stream, allowed students to apply, without having to provide proof of funds, financial support for their studies. Colleges and Universities are in a precarious position, which is forcing them to change their recruitment, financial, and planning strategies.
Social Changes and Federal Protections
Additional leave options for pregnancy loss and placement leave have been added for federally regulated employees. This is a response to changing social structures and the need for mental health support. There is also a graduated notice system of termination for federal employees which, along with the added retention benefits, has extended the service to offered increased periods of notice pay. Scab labor, that is, replacement workers during legal strikes, is prohibited. Non-strike workers during legal strikes, excluding essential services, are now subject to a fine of $100,000 each day.
The city of Toronto, Canada has changed and improved the zoning and licensing requirements for hospitalityIn the majority of commercial areas, all types of nightclubs are now permitted and we can see them supporting the economy and the expansion of nightlife beyond the downtown area. The new zoning also wants to promote the development of new businesses and new jobs within the hospitality industry.
FAQs
In Canada, what new BAC limit is set for impaired driving in the year 2025?
The BAC limit set for Canada is now 0.05 across the board.
In 2025, how many study permits will Canada issue?
Canada will issue 437,000 study permits which is a 10% decrease from the previous year.
Do older vehicles have to comply with the ADAS regulations?
There is no requirement for older vehicles which do not have ADAS, however there are some monetary incentives to encourage them to make upgrades.
What changes have been made to the 2025 labour laws for gig workers?
Gig workers employed on digital platforms now possess full employee status and all associated benefits.
