Legislative Assembly of Ontario

Legislative Assembly of Ontario. It is the unicameral legislative body of the Parliament of Ontario, vested with the power to enact provincial statutes, approve budgets, and scrutinize the government. The assembly, whose members are known as Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs), convenes at the historic Ontario Legislative Building in Toronto. Its proceedings are governed by parliamentary tradition, Westminster system conventions, and its own Standing Orders.

History

The assembly was created under the Constitution Act, 1867, which established the Dominion of Canada and the provincial legislature for Ontario, then known as Canada West. The first session opened in 1867 in Toronto, with the initial home being the former York County Court House. Key historical developments include the expansion of the franchise, such as the extension of voting rights to women in 1917 under the Ontario Temperance Act and the Wartime Elections Act, and the Persons Case which impacted eligibility for office. Significant political shifts have occurred, including the rise of the United Farmers of Ontario, the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation, and the modern Ontario New Democratic Party. The assembly has been the site of major policy debates, from the implementation of OHIP under Premier John Robarts to the Common Sense Revolution under Premier Mike Harris.

Composition and electoral system

The assembly is composed of 124 MPPs, each elected from a single-member electoral district, commonly called a riding. Elections are administered by Elections Ontario and are held at least every four years under the fixed-date provisions of the Election Act (Ontario), using a first-past-the-post electoral system. The Electoral Boundaries Act, 2015 governs the independent redistribution of these boundaries by the Ontario Electoral Boundaries Commission. The Speaker is elected by MPPs, while the Premier is typically the leader of the party commanding the confidence of the assembly.

Powers and functions

The assembly's primary authority is to make laws for Ontario in areas of provincial jurisdiction outlined in the Constitution Act, 1867, such as education, healthcare, natural resources, and municipal institutions. It holds the power of the purse, authorizing all provincial spending and taxation through supply bills. The assembly provides parliamentary scrutiny through mechanisms like Question Period, standing committees such as the Public Accounts Committee, and the ability to pass motions of confidence. It also plays a role in the constitutional amendment process under the Constitution Act, 1982.

Current assembly and membership

The current assembly is the 43rd Parliament of Ontario, resulting from the 2022 Ontario general election. The Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario, led by Premier Doug Ford, holds a majority of seats. The Ontario New Democratic Party, led by Marit Stiles, forms the Official Opposition. Other recognized parties include the Ontario Liberal Party, led by Bonnie Crombie, and the Green Party of Ontario, led by Mike Schreiner. The assembly includes several independent MPPs, such as Sarah Jama. The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Edith Dumont, represents the Monarch of Canada.

Facilities

The assembly has been housed in the Ontario Legislative Building at Queen's Park since 1893. Designed by architect Richard A. Waite in a Richardsonian Romanesque style, the building is a National Historic Site. Key rooms include the Legislative Chamber, the Legislative Library of Ontario, and the Lieutenant Governor's suite. The North Wing and Whitney Block provide additional office space for MPPs and staff. The building underwent a major restoration known as the Legislative Assembly Restoration project beginning in 2012.

Procedure and traditions

Procedure is based on the Westminster model and detailed in the Standing Orders. The daily routine includes Prayers, Statements, and Question Period. Legislation passes through first reading, second reading, committee stage, and third reading. Traditions include the use of the Ceremonial Mace, the wearing of academic robes by the Clerk, and the Speaker's procession. The assembly's broadcasts are provided by the Ontario Parliament Network.