Ford's Bill Sparks Environmental Concerns Over Endangered Species Protections

Premier Ford's proposed legislation aims to boost Ontario's economy by speeding up permits, but environmentalists warn it will weaken endangered-species protections. Key changes include giving cabinet final say on protected species, narrowing the definition of habitat, and replacing permits with a registration system. The bill also scraps a "pay to slay" conservation fund that has yet to fund any projects.

The government claims these changes maintain environmental protections while cutting red tape, a view supported by business groups. Environmentalists counter that the changes gut existing safeguards. The bill also introduces "special economic zones" for expedited approvals and renames the Endangered Species Act, removing the goal of species recovery.

The government cites permit delays as a concern, while environmental groups worry about cabinet control over species protection and the narrow habitat definition. Critics point to a report showing the province's failure to protect species at risk, with a rise in permits allowing impacts and few enforcement actions. They argue the changes scapegoat vulnerable species for economic delays.