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Front Burner Will laws apply in Ontario’s ‘special economic zones’?
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May 29, 2025 
Mike Crawley, a Senior Reporter with CBC News specializing in Ontario issues, dives into the contentious Bill 5, which seeks to fast track mining projects and create 'special economic zones.' He unpacks the fierce opposition from Indigenous groups, who fear their rights and environmental protections are being undermined. The discussion highlights the balancing act between economic growth and respecting Indigenous concerns, along with the potential ramifications of exempting companies from existing laws amidst rising tensions reminiscent of the Idle No More movement.
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Bill 5’s Sweeping Powers
- Bill 5 is a sweeping law enabling fast-tracking of mining and creation of special economic zones with exemptions from various laws.
- It could exempt companies from labor, environmental, and municipal bylaws without clear criteria for selection.
Special Economic Zones Explained
- Special economic zones in Ontario can be designated anywhere with broad power to exempt companies from laws.
- The legislation places no limits on the laws that can be exempted, creating a "blank slate" where fundamental laws might not apply.
Charter Rights and Zones
- Basic charter rights could not legally be exempted in special economic zones.
- Any attempt to override constitutional rights would face a strong legal challenge.