Monumental Advocacy Wins for MVRO in 2023

Skilled trades reform, tougher fines for curbsider by, Frank Notte, Government Relations Director of MVRO

MARKHAM, December 27, 2023 – The Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario (MVRO) is celebrating a successful 2023 that saw monumental advocacy wins for Ontario’s 1,100 new car and truck retailers. Changes were made to the education system introducing students to the skilled trades at a younger age. Also, for the first time in 21 years, the minimum fine for illegal, unlicensed car dealers – commonly known as curbsiders – has increased. The fine has doubled from $2,500 – $5,000.

“In 2023, Premier Doug Ford continued to show his tremendous support for Ontario’s auto retail sector,” said Frank Notte, Director of Government Relations for the MVRO. “By reforming the skilled trades system and getting tough on illegal car dealers, Premier Ford is not just talking the talk – but he’s walking the walk. He has taken our concerns seriously and is making crucial changes to support the sector.”

The MVRO also appreciates the tireless efforts of Francesco Sorbara, the Member of Parliament for Vaughan – Woodbridge and Chair of the Liberal Auto Caucus. “MP Sorbara’s hard work and support for the auto retail sector played an important role in doubling the federal Tradesperson’s Tool Deduction from $500 – $1,000 in the 2023 federal Budget,” said Notte. “This deduction will greatly benefit auto technicians by lowering the cost of their tools.”

The MVRO accomplishments for 2023 include:

• The passing of Bill 139, the Less Red Tape, More Common Sense Act, 2023, which increases the minimum fine for curbsiders – illegal, unlicensed car dealers – from $2,500 to $5,000. This is the first increase to the minimum fine since the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act was passed in 2002.

• Doubling the federal Tradesperson’s Tool Deduction from $500 to $1,000 in Budget 2023.

• A commitment to consult on allowing students in grade 11 to transition to a full-time, skilled trades apprenticeship program. Upon receiving their Certificate of Apprenticeship, these young workers can apply for their Ontario Secondary School Diploma as mature students.

• Implementing a new high school graduation requirement. Starting with students entering Grade 9 in September 2024, all students will now be required to earn a Grade 9 or 10 Technological Education credit as part of their Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

• The commissioning of the MVRO’s first ever Ontario Labour Market Report. The report showed in Q1 of 2023, there were 3,000 job vacancies in the automotive trades.

• Expanding the functionality of the Digital Dealer Registration program to include the registration of used vehicles, and more online functionality to keep track of stock and other items.

• Extending Ontario’s 5.7 cents per litre tax cut on gasoline until June 30, 2024; and

• $18 million in provincial funding for the Preventing Auto Thefts (PAT) grant to help police combat auto theft.

The Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario has been the voice of Ontario’s 1,100 new car and truck retailers since 1908, offering industry leading advocacy and member support. MVRO members generate and support 85,300 jobs and contribute $14 billion in GDP to Ontario’s economy every year.

Other Related News