TORONTO — The Ontario government is introducing sweeping legislation aimed at strengthening protections for victims of human trafficking, intimate partner violence, and child exploitation. The Protect Ontario Through Safer Streets and Stronger Communities Act, 2025, if passed, will modernize several laws and introduce new tools to hold offenders accountable and support survivors.
“Our government is taking action to deliver justice for those who have been victimized by heinous crimes,” said Attorney General Doug Downey.
Key Proposals in the Legislation
The comprehensive legislative package includes:
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Strengthening Christopher’s Law (Sex Offender Registry) to include child sex traffickers.
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Amending the Family Law Act and Children’s Law Reform Act to make restraining orders against abusers more accessible, including allowing designated representatives to apply on behalf of victims.
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Enforcing the Accommodation Sector Registration of Guests Act, 2021 starting January 1, 2026, giving police new tools to investigate human trafficking in hotels and short-term rentals.
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Consulting on the implementation of Bill 41, the Protection from Coerced Debts Incurred in relation to Human Trafficking Act, 2023, to reduce the financial hardship for survivors.
Protecting communities, supporting victims of crime.
Today, our government announced the Protect Ontario Through Safer Streets and Stronger Communities Act.
This would include changes to protect families, support victims, and get tougher on crime.https://t.co/oRnm2H1cTS pic.twitter.com/BYjHshJSOt
— Doug Downey (@douglasdowney) May 1, 2025
These actions will be supported by Ontario’s renewed Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy, backed by $345 million over five years (2025-2030).
“This is another step toward building a province free of violence and full of opportunity for all,” said Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity.
Building on Tough-on-Crime Reforms
The legislation also supports Ontario’s broader justice strategy, including:
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New prosecution teams for violent crimes and cybercrimes.
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Enhanced police powers to search and seize electronic devices related to auto theft.
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Strengthened bail measures to keep repeat and violent offenders behind bars.
“Ontario is delivering significant new measures to protect our communities and support victims and survivors of crime,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Attorney General.
Ontario’s Leadership in Fighting Human Trafficking
Ontario’s Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy has helped over 20,000 people in its first three years. The province continues to lead the country in anti-trafficking programs, victim supports, and legal reforms.
“Sexual Violence Prevention Month serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to protect those at risk,” said Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services.
“Our government is focused on protecting Ontario,” added Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General.
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