March 13,2026
RED FM News Desk
The Ontario government is proposing changes that would allow retail stores across the province to open on Family Day and Victoria Day, while maintaining strong protections for workers who choose to take the holidays off.
Under the proposal, retailers would have the option to open on these two non-religious statutory holidays, giving families more convenience to shop. Employees who choose to work would receive time-and-a-half premium pay in addition to their regular public holiday pay, while still keeping the right to refuse work.
Ontario’s Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement, Stephen Crawford, said the change would give businesses and workers more flexibility while providing families with greater shopping options.
Currently, retail holiday rules vary across municipalities, creating inconsistencies for businesses and workers. The provincial government says the proposed changes would create a more consistent, province-wide approach while still protecting worker rights under the Employment Standards Act, 2000.
Labour Minister David Piccini said modernizing the rules will help businesses grow while continuing to protect employees and support Ontario’s economy.
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