Legislative Assembly Act

1 The Assembly is composed of the number of members that is determined under the Representation Act, 2015. 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (1); 2015, c. 31, Sched. 5, s. 1. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 28, s. 4 - 01/01/1998 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (1) - 15/12/2005 2015, c. 31, Sched. 5, s. 1 - 03/12/2015

2 (1) The Legislature shall not determine or be dissolved by the demise of the Crown, but shall continue, and may meet, convene and sit, proceed and act, in the same manner as if such demise had not happened. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 2 (1). Power to prorogue or dissolve not affected (2) Nothing in this section alters or abridges the power of the Crown to prorogue or dissolve the Legislature. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 2 (2).

3 No Legislative Assembly shall continue for longer than five years from the polling day for the general election of its members except as provided in subsection 4 (2) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. 2025, c. 15, Sched. 7, s. 9. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (2) - 15/12/2005 2025, c. 15, Sched. 7, s. 9 - 27/11/2025

4 There shall be a session of the Legislature once at least in every year, so that twelve months do not intervene between the last sitting of the Legislature in one session and its first sitting in the next. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 4.

5 It is not necessary for the Lieutenant Governor in proroguing the Legislature to name a day to which it is prorogued, nor to issue a formal proclamation for a meeting of the Legislature when it is not intended that the Legislature shall meet for despatch of business. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 5.

6 The persons qualified to sit and vote as members of the Assembly are any persons of the full age of eighteen years who are Canadian citizens resident in Ontario and not disqualified by this or any other Act from election to the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 6.

7 (1) No person who on the day of nomination for election to the Assembly is a member of the Senate of Canada or of the House of Commons of Canada is eligible as a member of the Assembly or shall be returned as elected thereto, and if any such person receives a majority of votes at an election, the votes cast for that person shall be thrown away and the returning officer shall return the person having the next greatest number of votes if he or she is otherwise eligible. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 7 (1). Vacation of seat (2) If a member of the Assembly is elected and returned to the House of Commons of Canada or is appointed to the Senate of Canada, the member’s seat in the Assembly is thereupon vacated and a writ shall issue forthwith for a new election to fill the vacancy. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 7 (2).

8 (1) Except as hereinafter specially provided, no person accepting or holding any office, commission or employment in the service of the Government of Canada, or of the Government of Ontario at the nomination of the Crown or at the nomination of any of the officers of the Government of Canada or of the Government of Ontario to which any salary, fee, wage, allowance, emolument or profit of any kind is attached is eligible as a member of the Assembly or shall sit or vote therein. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 8 (1). Exceptions (2) Nothing in this section renders ineligible as aforesaid or disqualifies from sitting and voting in the Assembly when not otherwise disqualified, (a) a member of the Executive Council or a Parliamentary Assistant; (b) an officer or other member of the regular force or reserve force of the Canadian Forces; (c) a coroner, notary public or public school supervisory offic…

9 (1) Subject to subsection (2), a member of the Assembly is not eligible to hold office as a member of the council of a municipality or as a member of a local board, as defined in the Municipal Affairs Act, of a municipality. 2002, c. 17, Sched. F, Table. Member deemed to have resigned municipal office when election to Assembly published (2) Every person who is elected a member of the Assembly while holding an office referred to in subsection (1) may continue to hold such office, despite any other Act, until the end of the day on which the return of the election of such person to the Assembly is published in The Ontario Gazette under section 83 of the Election Act, at which time the member shall be deemed to have resigned such office. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 9 (2); 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (3). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2002, c. 17, Sched. F, Table - 01/01/2003 2005, c. 35…

10., 11 Repealed: 1994, c. 38, s. 38 (1). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 38, s. 38 (1) - 06/10/1995

12 No disqualification under section 8 on any ground arising before the election shall be held by any court to affect the seat of a member of the Assembly or to disentitle any person to sit or vote therein until the disqualification has been duly found and declared by an election court, but this is not to be construed as affecting the right of the Assembly to expel a member according to the practice of Parliament or otherwise. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 12; 1994, c. 38, s. 38 (2). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1994, c. 38, s. 38 (2) - 06/10/1995

13 If a person who is disqualified or ineligible or incapable of being elected a member of the Assembly is nevertheless elected and returned, the election and return is void. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 13.

14 Despite anything in any Act, a member of the Assembly who is appointed a member of the Executive Council or a Parliamentary Assistant shall not, by reason of the acceptance of such appointment, vacate his or her seat or be disqualified from sitting or voting in the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 14.

15 (1) If a member of the Assembly by accepting any office as in section 8 mentioned is disqualified by law to continue to sit or vote in the Assembly, his or her seat shall be vacated, but the member may be re-elected if he or she is not declared ineligible under this Act. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 15 (1); 1994, c. 38, s. 38 (3). Saving in case of, exchange of offices in Executive Council (2) Nevertheless, whenever a person holding any of the offices mentioned in section 2 of the Executive Council Act and being at the same time a member of the Assembly resigns his or her office and accepts any other of such offices, the member does not thereby vacate his or her seat in the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 15 (2). Additional offices in Executive Council (3) Where a member of the Executive Council holding any one of the offices mentioned in section 2 of the Executive Council Act is appoi…

16 (1) Subject to section 12, a person ineligible as a member of or disqualified from sitting or voting in the Assembly who sits or votes therein while ineligible or disqualified shall forfeit the sum of $2,000 for every day on which he or she so sits or votes, and such sum may be recovered from him or her by any person who sues for it in any court of competent jurisdiction. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 16 (1). Idem (2) If an action is brought and judgment is recovered against the defendant, no other action shall be brought or proceeding taken against the defendant for any act under this section committed before notice to him or her of the recovery of the judgment. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 16 (2). Staying proceedings in other actions (3) The court wherein any other action is brought contrary to the intent and meaning of this Act, may upon the defendant’s motion, stay the proceedings therein,…

17 (1) A member elect may at any time before his or her election is complained of disclaim his or her seat in the manner hereinafter provided, and the member thereby vacates the seat and ceases to be a member in respect of the seat so disclaimed. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 17 (1). Mode of disclaiming (2) A member elect who desires to disclaim may transmit by registered mail addressed to the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, Toronto, or cause to be delivered to the Clerk, a disclaimer signed by the member in the presence of two subscribing witnesses to the following effect: I, ..............................., member elect to the Legislative Assembly for the electoral district of ............................ , hereby disclaim all my right or title to sit or vote or in any manner to act as such member. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 17 (2). Transmission of copy of disclaimer (3) The Clerk of the A…

18 If a person returned as elected at a general election wishes to resign his or her seat before the first session of the Legislature thereafter, the person may address and cause to be delivered to any two members elect of the Assembly a declaration that he or she resigns the seat, made in writing and signed before two subscribing witnesses, and the two members upon receiving the declaration shall forthwith address their warrant under their hands and seals to the Chief Electoral Officer for the issue of a writ for the election of a member for the electoral district in the place of the member so resigning, and the writ shall issue accordingly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 18; 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1) - 04/06/2007

19 (1) A member may also resign his or her seat, (a) by giving in his or her place in the Assembly notice of his or her intention to resign it, which notice shall be entered immediately by the Clerk of the Assembly upon the Journals of the Assembly; or (b) by addressing and causing to be delivered to the Speaker a declaration that the member resigns his or her seat, made in writing and signed before two subscribing witnesses, which declaration may be so made and delivered either during a session of the Legislature or in the interval between two sessions. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 19 (1). Record (2) An entry of the declaration so delivered to the Speaker shall thereafter be made upon the Journals of the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 19 (2). New writ (3) Immediately after the notice of intention to resign has been entered upon the Journals, or after the receipt of the declaration, as t…

20 If a member wishes to resign his or her seat in the interval between two sessions of the Legislature, and there is then no Speaker, or the Speaker is absent from Ontario, or if the member is the Speaker, the member may address and cause to be delivered to two members the declaration before mentioned, and the two members upon receiving the declaration shall forthwith address their warrant under their hands and seals to the Chief Electoral Officer for the issue of a writ for the election of a member in the place of the member so resigning, and the writ shall issue accordingly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 20; 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1) - 04/06/2007

21 (1) A member or member elect tendering his or her resignation in any manner hereinbefore provided for shall be deemed to have vacated his or her seat and to have ceased to be a member of the Assembly in respect thereof. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 21 (1). Time for resignation (2) A member or member elect shall not tender his or her resignation while his or her election is controverted, nor until after the expiration of the time within which an election petition may be filed. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 21 (2).

22 Forthwith after receipt by the Clerk of the Assembly of a judgment by the Superior Court of Justice under the Election Act that the election of a person is void and ordering a new election, the Speaker or, if there is no Speaker or the Speaker is absent from Ontario or is unable to act, the Clerk of the Assembly shall address a warrant under his or her hand and seal to the Chief Electoral Officer for the issue of a writ for the election of a member for the electoral district the election for which was adjudged to be void, and the writ shall issue accordingly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 22; 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (4); 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (4) - 15/12/2005 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1) - 04/06/2007

23 The measures taken under sections 18 to 22 by the Speaker or Clerk of the Assembly shall be reported to the Assembly at the earliest practicable time, and shall be forthwith entered upon the Journals. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 23.

24 (1) If a person returned as elected appears by the judgment mentioned in section 22 not to have been duly returned or elected, the person shall not thereafter unless re-elected sit or vote in the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 24 (1). Rights of persons declared elected (2) If a person, other than the person returned as elected, appears by the judgment to have been duly returned or elected, the person is thereupon entitled to sit and vote in the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 24 (2).

25 (1) If a vacancy occurs in the Assembly by the death of a member, or by his or her accepting an office, commission or employment, unless otherwise provided by this Act, the Speaker, on being informed of the vacancy by a member of the Assembly in his or her place, or by notice in writing under the hands and seals of two members, shall forthwith address a warrant to the Chief Electoral Officer for the issue of a writ for the election of a member to fill the vacancy, and the writ shall issue accordingly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 25 (1); 1994, c. 38, s. 38 (4); 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1). Proceedings when Speaker is absent from Ontario or there is no Speaker (2) If any such vacancy occurs, or at any time thereafter, before the warrant for the writ has issued, there is no Speaker, or the Speaker is absent from Ontario, or if the member whose seat is vacated is the Speaker, then two members may…

26 (1) A warrant may issue under the hands and seals of two members elect to the Chief Electoral Officer for the issue of a writ for the election of a member to fill a vacancy arising after a general election and before the first session of the Legislature thereafter, by reason of any of the causes mentioned in section 25, and the writ may issue at any time after such vacancy. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 26 (1); 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1). Election being contested not affected (2) The election to be held under the writ does not affect the right of any person entitled to contest the previous election, and the court shall determine whether the member who has died or whose seat has become vacant as aforesaid, or any other person, was duly returned or elected, which determination, if adverse to the return of such member and in favour of any other candidate, avoids the election held under this secti…

27 (1) Where a vacancy occurs in the membership of the Assembly, a writ shall be issued within six months after receipt by the Chief Electoral Officer of the warrant for the issue of a writ for the election of a member to fill such vacancy. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 27 (1); 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1). Non-application of section (2) This section does not apply where the vacancy occurs in the last year of the legal life of the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 27 (2). Writ revoked on dissolution of Legislature (3) If the Legislature is dissolved after the issue of a writ under subsection (1) and before an election is held under the writ, the writ is revoked on the dissolution of the Legislature. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 27 (3). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2007, c. 15, s. 40 (1) - 04/06/2007

28 (1) The Assembly shall elect one of its members to be Speaker at its next meeting, (a) after a general election is held; or (b) after the office becomes vacant. 2020, c. 15, s. 1. Appointment of Deputy Speaker (2) The Assembly shall, by order, appoint one of its members to be Deputy Speaker at or after its next meeting, (a) after a general election is held; or (b) after the office becomes vacant. 2020, c. 15, s. 1. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 1 - 14/07/2020

28.1 The Speaker is the guardian of the rights, immunities, privileges and powers of the Assembly, its committees and its members. 2020, c. 15, s. 1. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 1 - 14/07/2020

29 (1) The Speaker shall preside at all meetings of the Assembly and shall preside over and have charge of the Office of the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 29 (1). Absence of Speaker (2) In the absence of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker has all the powers, privileges and duties of the Speaker. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 29 (2).

30 When the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker finds it necessary to leave the chair during any part of the sittings on any day, he or she may call upon any member to take the chair and to act as Speaker during the remainder of the day unless the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker resumes the chair before the close of the sittings for that day. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 30.

31 When the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker are not present at the meeting of the Assembly on any day, the Assembly may elect a member to take the chair and act as Speaker for that day. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 31.

32 If the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker are absent from the chair for a period of forty-eight consecutive hours, the Assembly may elect another of its members to act as Speaker, and the member so elected, during the continuance of the absence of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker, has all the powers, privileges and duties of the Speaker. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 32. Speaker and Deputy to continue in office following dissolution

33 (1) The person who holds the office of Speaker when the Legislature is dissolved shall continue to be the Speaker until a new Speaker is elected by the Assembly. 2020, c. 15, s. 2. Deputy Speaker (2) The person who holds the office of Deputy Speaker when the Legislature is dissolved shall continue to be the Deputy Speaker until a new Deputy Speaker is appointed by the Assembly. 2020, c. 15, s. 2. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 2 - 14/07/2020

34 Every bill passed and every order made and thing done by the Assembly while a member is acting as Speaker is as valid and effectual as if done while the Speaker was in the chair. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 34.

35 (1) The Assembly may at all times command and compel the attendance before the Assembly or a committee thereof of such persons, and the production of such papers and things, as the Assembly or committee considers necessary for any of its proceedings or deliberations. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 35 (1). Speaker’s warrant for attendance, etc. (2) When the Assembly requires the attendance of a person before the Assembly or a committee thereof, the Speaker may issue a warrant directed to the person named in the order of the Assembly requiring the person’s attendance before the Assembly or committee and the production of the papers and things as ordered. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 35 (2).

36 No person is liable in damages or otherwise for any act done under the authority of the Assembly and within its legal power or under or by virtue of a warrant issued under such authority, and every such warrant may command the aid and assistance of all sheriffs, bailiffs, constables and others, and every refusal or failure to give such aid or assistance when required is a contravention of this Act. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 36; 2020, c. 15, s. 3. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 3 - 14/07/2020

37 A member of the Assembly is not liable to any civil action or prosecution, arrest, imprisonment or damages, by reason of any matter or thing the member brought by petition, bill, resolution, motion or otherwise, or said before the Assembly or a committee thereof. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 37.

38 Except for a contravention of this Act, a member of the Assembly is not liable to arrest or detention for any cause or matter whatever of a civil nature during a session of the Legislature or during the twenty days preceding or the twenty days following a session. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 38.

39 No person shall make a personal service that is required or authorized by law in a civil matter upon another person in the legislative precinct, within the meaning of section 102.1. 2020, c. 15, s. 4. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 4 - 14/07/2020

40 During the periods mentioned in section 38, members, officers and employees of the Assembly and witnesses summoned to attend before the Assembly or a committee thereof are exempt from serving or attending as jurors in any court of justice in Ontario. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 40; 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 1. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 1 - 06/12/2018

41 No member of the Assembly shall knowingly accept or receive, either directly or indirectly, any fee, compensation or reward for or in respect of the drafting, advising upon, revising, promoting or opposing any bill, resolution, matter or thing submitted or intended to be submitted to the Assembly or a committee thereof. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 41.

42 No barrister or solicitor who in the practice of his or her profession is a partner of a member of the Assembly shall knowingly accept or receive, directly or indirectly, any fee, compensation or reward for or in respect of any matter or thing mentioned in section 41. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 42.

43 Every person contravening section 41 or 42 is liable to a penalty equal to the amount or value of the fee, compensation or reward the person accepted or received and the sum of $500. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 43.

44 Any contravention of section 41 is a corrupt practice, and an action alleging the contravention may be commenced within the time provided in the Limitations Act, 2002 in the same manner and the procedure shall be the same as in the case of other actions under sections 99 to 111 (Contested Elections) of the Election Act. 2002, c. 24, Sched. B, s. 41. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2002, c. 24, Sched. B, s. 41 - 01/01/2004

45 If judgment is recovered against a member of the Assembly for any penalty under section 43, or if by a resolution of the Assembly it is declared that a member has been guilty of a contravention of section 41, or if it is adjudged by the Superior Court of Justice in an action mentioned in section 44 that a member has been guilty of a contravention of section 41, the member’s election becomes void and his or her seat shall be vacated, and a writ shall issue for a new election as if he or she were dead and the member is incapable of being elected to or of sitting in the Assembly during the remainder of the term for which he or she was elected. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 45; 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (4). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (4) - 15/12/2005

46 (1) The Assembly has all the rights and privileges of a court of record for the purposes of summarily inquiring into and punishing, as breaches of privilege or as contempts and without affecting the liability of the offenders to prosecution and punishment criminally or otherwise according to law, independently of this Act, the acts, matters and things following: Assaults, insults, libels 1. Assault, insult or libel upon a member of the Assembly during a session of the Legislature or during the twenty days preceding or the twenty days following a session. Threats 2. Obstructing, threatening or attempting to force or intimidate a member of the Assembly. Bribery and offering of fee 3. Offering to, or the acceptance by, a member of the Assembly of a bribe to influence the member in his or her proceedings as such, or offering to or the acceptance by a member of any fee, compensation or rew…

47 Every person who, upon such inquiry, is found to have committed or done any of the acts, matters, or things mentioned in section 46, in addition to any other penalty or punishment to which he or she may by law be subject, is liable to imprisonment for such time during the session of the Legislature then being held as is determined by the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 47.

48 (1) Where the Assembly declares that a person has been guilty of a breach of privilege or of a contempt in respect of any of the acts, matters and things mentioned in section 46 and directs that the person be kept and detained in the custody of the sergeant-at-arms attending the Assembly, the Speaker shall issue a warrant to the sergeant-at-arms to take the person into custody and to keep and detain the person in custody in accordance with the order of the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 48 (1). Warrant of committal (2) Where the Assembly directs that the imprisonment shall be in a correctional institution in the City of Toronto, the Speaker shall issue the warrant to the sergeant-at-arms and to the superintendent of such correctional institution commanding the sergeant-at-arms to take such person into custody and to deliver the person to the superintendent of such correctional ins…

49 The determination of the Assembly upon any proceeding under this Act is final and conclusive. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 49.

50 (1) Any person who is a defendant in a civil proceeding commenced in any manner for or in respect of the publication of any report, paper, vote or proceeding by such person or by the person’s servant by or under the authority of the Assembly may bring before the court in which the proceeding is pending (first giving twenty-four hours notice of the person’s intention so to do to the plaintiff or the plaintiff’s solicitor) a certificate under the hand of the Speaker or of the Clerk of the Assembly, stating that the report, paper, vote or proceeding in respect whereof the proceeding has been commenced was published by such person or by the person’s servant by order or under the authority of the Assembly together with an affidavit verifying the certificate. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 50 (1). Stay of proceedings (2) The court shall thereupon immediately stay the proceeding and it and every w…

51 (1) If a civil proceeding is commenced for or in respect of the publication of a copy of such report, paper, vote or proceeding, the defendant at any stage of the proceeding may lay before the court the report, paper, vote or proceeding and the copy with an affidavit verifying the report, paper, vote or proceeding and the correctness of the copy. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 51 (1). Stay of proceedings (2) The court shall thereupon immediately stay the proceeding and it and every writ or process issued therein shall be taken to be finally put an end to, determined and superseded. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 51 (2).

52 It is a good defence to any civil proceeding against a person for printing any extract from or abstract of any such report, paper, vote or proceeding that the extract or abstract was published in good faith and without malice. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 52.

52.1 (1) In addition to the rights, immunities, privileges and powers conferred on them by this or any other Act, the Assembly, its committees and its members have the same rights, immunities, privileges and powers as those held, enjoyed and exercised respectively by the House of Commons of the Parliament of the United Kingdom, its committees and its members at the time of the passing of the Constitution Act, 1867. 2020, c. 15, s. 5. Rights, etc., are part of the general and public law (2) The rights, immunities, privileges and powers that the Assembly, its committees and its members have under subsection (1) are part of the general and public law of Ontario and it is not necessary to plead them. 2020, c. 15, s. 5. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 5 - 14/07/2020

53 Except so far as is provided by section 41, nothing in this Act shall be construed to deprive the Assembly or a committee or member thereof of any right, immunity, privilege or power that the Assembly, committee or member might otherwise have been entitled to exercise or enjoy. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 53.

54 Where the Assembly has adopted the report of a committee of the Assembly recommending the purchase of any publication for the use of the members of the Assembly or for other persons, the publication may be purchased by the Minister of Finance and distributed according to the recommendations of the report, and the cost thereof shall be paid out of any sum appropriated by the Legislature for stationery, printing and binding. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 54; 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (5). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (5) - 15/12/2005

55 (1) At least 12 members of the Assembly are necessary to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and for that purpose the Speaker shall be counted. 1999, c. 5, s. 3 (1). Constitutional amendment (2) The re-enactment of this section by section 3 of the Legislative Assembly Statute Law Amendment Act, 1999 constitutes an amendment to the constitution of the Province of Ontario. 1999, c. 5, s. 3 (1). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1999, c. 5, s. 3 (1) - 28/10/1999

56 Questions arising in the Assembly shall be decided by a majority of voices, other than that of the Speaker, and, when the voices are equal, the Speaker has a vote. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 56.

57 The Assembly shall not adopt or pass any vote, resolution, address or bill for the appropriation of any part of the Consolidated Revenue Fund, or of any tax or impost, to any purpose that has not been first recommended by a message of the Lieutenant Governor to the Assembly during the session in which the vote, resolution, address or bill is proposed. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 57.

58 The judges of the Superior Court of Justice are by virtue of their office commissioners to report under the Rules of the Assembly in respect of estate bills. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 58; 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (4). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (4) - 15/12/2005

59 Any standing or special committee of the Assembly may require that facts, matters and things relating to the subject of inquiry be verified or otherwise ascertained by the oral examination of witnesses, and may examine witnesses on oath or affirmation, and for that purpose the chair or any member of the committee may administer the following oath or affirmation, in English or French: “Do you solemnly swear (or affirm) that the evidence you shall give to this Committee touching the subject of the present inquiry shall be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? So help you God. (omit this phrase in an affirmation)” 2017, c. 20, Sched. 11, s. 16. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2017, c. 20, Sched. 11, s. 16 - 14/11/2017

60 Where witnesses are not required to be examined orally, an affirmation, declaration or affidavit, that is required to be made or taken by or according to any rule or order of the Assembly, or by the direction of any committee, and in respect of any matter or thing pending or proceeding before the committee, may be made and taken before the Clerk of the Assembly, the clerk of the committee, a commissioner for taking affidavits or a justice of the peace. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 60.

61 (1) Every member of the Assembly shall be paid an annual salary in an amount equal to 75 per cent of the annual sessional allowance paid to members of the House of Commons under Part IV of the Parliament of Canada Act. 2006, c. 36, s. 1 (1). Same (1.1) For greater certainty, whenever the annual sessional allowance paid to members of the House of Commons under that Act changes, a corresponding change shall be made to the annual salary of every member of the Assembly. 2006, c. 36, s. 1 (1). (1.2) Repealed: 2025, c. 2, s. 1. (1.3) Repealed: 2022, c. 23, Sched. 5, s. 1 (2). (1.4) Repealed: 2006, c. 36, s. 1 (1). Computation (2) For the purpose of computing the amount of a member’s salary, a member shall be deemed to have been a member, (a) beginning on the polling day on which the member is elected; and (b) when the Legislature of which he or she is a member is dissolved, ending on the da…

61.1 Repealed: 2009, c. 18, Sched. 15, s. 2. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2004, c. 2, s. 1 - 15/04/2004 2006, c. 36, s. 1 (2) - 20/12/2006 2009, c. 18, Sched. 15, s. 2 - 05/06/2009

62 (1) The annual salary of a member is increased by the following amount, expressed as a percentage of his or her annual salary under section 61, for any one of the following positions that he or she holds: 1. Speaker, 31.2 per cent. 2. Deputy Speaker and Chair of the Committee of the Whole House, 14.8 per cent. 3. Deputy Chair of the Committee of the Whole House, 10.9 per cent. 4. Chair of a standing or select committee, 14 per cent. 5. Vice-chair of a standing or select committee, 8 per cent. 6. Leader of the Opposition, 55.2 per cent. 7. Leader of a recognized party, except the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition, 35.7 per cent. 8. Chair of the caucus of the party from which the Government is chosen or chair of the caucus of the party recognized as the Official Opposition, 12.5 per cent. 9. Chair of a recognized party, except the party from which the Government is chosen and the…

63 (1) The annual salary otherwise payable to a member under sections 61 and 62 shall be reduced by the amount of the allowance or pension that the member receives, if any, under the MPPs Pension Act, 1996 or a predecessor to that Act for the same period. 1996, c. 6, s. 9; 2006, c. 36, s. 1 (4). Interpretation (2) For the purposes of subsection (1), a payment to a member under subsection 24 (3) of the MPPs Pension Act, 1996 is not an allowance or pension. 2006, c. 36, s. 1 (5). Exception (3) Subsection (1) does not apply with respect to a pension a member receives under a supplemental pension plan established under section 54 of the MPPs Pension Act, 1996. 2025, c. 2, s. 3. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 9 - 01/04/1996 2006, c. 36, s. 1 (4, 5) - 20/12/2006 2025, c. 2, s. 3 - 01/01/2026

63.1 (1) No member is entitled to be paid an allowance for expenses incident to the discharge of his or her duties as a member of the Assembly. 1996, c. 6, s. 9. Expenses actually incurred (2) Nothing in subsection (1) prevents a member from being reimbursed for expenses actually incurred in the discharge of his or her duties as a member. 1996, c. 6, s. 9. Status for income tax purposes (3) For the purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada), no portion of the salary, benefits or expenses paid to a member under this Act is paid as an allowance for expenses incident to the discharge of his or her duties as a member. 1996, c. 6, s. 9. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 9 - 01/04/1996

64 (1) Subject to subsection (2), if the principal residence of one of the following individuals is more than 50 kilometres from the seat of government at Toronto, he or she shall be paid the actual cost of his or her accommodation within Toronto: 1. The Leader of the Opposition. 2. The leader of a recognized party within the meaning of subsection 62 (5), except the Premier and the Leader of the Opposition. 1996, c. 6, s. 10; 1999, c. 5, s. 3 (4). Same (2) The maximum annual allowance for accommodation under subsection (1) is $1,000 more than the amount determined by the Board of Internal Economy under subsection 67 (10) for a particular year. 1996, c. 6, s. 10. Same (3) Subsection (1) does not apply to a member of the Assembly if every part of the member’s electoral district is 50 kilometres or less from the seat of government at Toronto. 2013, c. 10, s. 2 (1). Section Amendments with d…

65 Repealed: 1996, c. 6, s. 11. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 11 - 01/04/1996

66 Repealed: 1996, c. 6, s. 12. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 12 - 01/04/1996 Members’ allowances and expenses

67 (1) There shall be paid to each member of the Assembly for transportation by private automobile while on business as a member of the Assembly between the member’s residence and the seat of government at Toronto or within his or her electoral district an allowance for every kilometre of such transportation in such amount as may be determined from time to time by the Board of Internal Economy. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 67 (1). Expenses, travel to and from Toronto (2) A member of the Assembly who travels on business as a member of the Assembly between the member’s residence and the seat of government at Toronto shall be paid the actual and reasonable cost of transportation for such travel for such number of round trips as may be prescribed by the Board of Internal Economy. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 67 (2). Spouse, etc. (3) A member referred to in subsection (2) shall be paid the actual and…

68 (1) The Speaker shall, in accordance with determinations made by the Board of Internal Economy under subsection (3), post on a website established or designated by the Speaker the information required by subsection (2) with respect to payments made to members under section 67 for, (a) travel expenses, other than for travel within a member’s electoral district that relates to his or her constituency work; (b) expenses for hotel accommodation related to travel referred to in clause (a); (c) meal expenses; and (d) hospitality expenses. 2014, c. 13, Sched. 7, s. 2. Information required to be posted (2) Subject to subsection (4), the following information is required to be posted with respect to each payment for an expense referred to in subsection (1): 1. The name of the member who incurred the expense and of his or her electoral district. 2. The date on which the expense was incurred. 3.…

69 (1) A severance allowance is payable to or in respect of the following persons: 1. A person who is a member of the Assembly immediately before the Assembly is dissolved or is ended by the passage of time and who does not become a member of the following Assembly. 2. A member of the Assembly who resigns his or her seat. 3. A person who was a member of the Assembly on the day of his or her death or a person who was a member of the Assembly immediately before the Assembly was dissolved or ended by the passage of time and who died before the polling day in the general election that followed the dissolution or ending. 2006, c. 36, s. 1 (6). Amount of severance allowance (2) The amount of the severance allowance is determined as follows: 1. For a person who was a member of the Assembly for a period of four years or less, the allowance is equal to one-half of his or her average annual remune…

70 Repealed: 1996, c. 6, s. 16. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 16 - 01/04/1996

71 Repealed: 1996, c. 6, s. 17. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 17 - 01/04/1996

72 Repealed: 1996, c. 6, s. 18. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 18 - 01/04/1996

73 For each fiscal year there shall be provided, (a) for the use of the caucus of the Government, the caucus of the Official Opposition and the caucus of a recognized party within the meaning of subsection 62 (5), for research purposes, such sums of money as are appropriated therefor by the Legislature; (b) for the use of the caucus of the Government, the caucus of the Official Opposition and the caucus of a recognized party within the meaning of subsection 62 (5), for such use as the caucus may determine, such sum of money as is appropriated therefor by the Legislature for each caucus based on the number of members in the caucus; (c) for the use of the caucus of the Official Opposition for the purpose of defraying the cost of salaries and expenses of the personal staff of the Leader of the Official Opposition, an amount appropriated therefor by the Legislature; and (d) for the use of th…

74 (1) Every member of the Assembly is entitled to such staff, office equipment, supplies and services as may be prescribed by the Board of Internal Economy. 2020, c. 15, s. 6. Office space (2) Every member of the Assembly who is not a member of the Executive Council is entitled to office space in accordance with section 90. 2022, c. 25, s. 1. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 6 - 14/07/2020 2022, c. 25, s. 1 - 08/12/2022

75 Repealed: 2001, c. 15, s. 2. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 19 - 01/04/1996 2001, c. 15, s. 2 - 29/06/2001

75.1 Repealed: 2001, c. 15, s. 3. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 1996, c. 6, s. 19 - 01/04/1996 2001, c. 15, s. 3 - 29/06/2001

Office of the Assembly

76 (1) The Office of the Assembly shall consist of, (a) the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker; and (b) the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, the Sergeant-at-Arms and the other employees of the Office of the Assembly. 2020, c. 15, s. 7. Appointment of employees (2) The Board of Internal Economy shall appoint such employees of the Office of the Assembly, other than the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly and the Sergeant-at-Arms, as may be required for the proper conduct of the business of the Office of the Assembly. 2022, c. 25, s. 2. Dismissal, etc., of employees (3) The Board of Internal Economy may dismiss, suspend or reprimand an employee of the Office of the Assembly, other than the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly or the Sergeant-at-Arms. 2022, c. 25, s. 2. Transition (4) For greater certainty, persons who, immediately before the day the Legislative Assembly Amendment Act, 2022 receive…

77 (1) The Assembly shall, by order, appoint the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Selection by panel (2) Unless decided otherwise by unanimous consent of the Assembly, an order shall be made under subsection (1) only if the person to be appointed has been selected by unanimous agreement of a panel composed of one member of the Assembly from each recognized party, chaired by the Speaker who is a non-voting member. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Definition (3) In this section, “recognized party” has the same meaning as in subsection 62 (5). 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Transition (4) The Clerk who is in office immediately before the day the Restoring Trust, Transparency and Accountability Act, 2018 receives Royal Assent is deemed to continue to hold office for the purposes of this section. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Section Amendments with date in force (…

77.1 (1) The Assembly may, by order passed by a vote of at least two thirds of the members of the Assembly, remove or suspend the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly from office for cause. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Suspension if Assembly not in session (2) If the Assembly is not in session, the Board of Internal Economy may on unanimous agreement suspend the Clerk for cause. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Duration of suspension (3) A suspension under subsection (1) continues until revoked by order of the Assembly or until the Clerk is removed from office pursuant to subsection (1). 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Same (4) Unless the Board of Internal Economy revokes the suspension before the next sitting of the Assembly, a suspension under subsection (2) continues until revoked by order of the Assembly or until the Clerk is removed from office pursuant to subsection (1). 2018, c. 17, Sche…

77.2 (1) The Clerk shall designate an individual from among the employees of the Office of the Assembly who shall have the powers and duties of the Clerk if the Clerk is absent or unable to fulfil the duties of his or her office or if the office becomes vacant. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Designation in writing (2) A designation under subsection (1) shall be in writing to the Speaker. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Powers and duties (3) The individual designated under subsection (1) shall have the powers and duties of the Clerk unless a temporary Clerk is appointed under section 77.3. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Salary (4) The Board of Internal Economy may increase the salary of an individual who assumes the powers and duties of the Clerk under subsection (1) in such circumstances as the Board considers appropriate. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Removal or suspension (5) Section 77.1 …

77.3 (1) If the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly is unable to fulfil the duties of his or her office or the office becomes vacant, the Assembly may, by order, appoint a temporary Clerk of the Legislative Assembly. 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4. Same, conditions (2) An order shall be made under subsection (1) only if, (a) the Clerk, (i) has not made a designation under subsection 77.2 (1), or (ii) has made a designation under subsection 77.2 (1), but, (A) the Clerk has been removed or suspended under section 77.1, or (B) the person designated is unable or unwilling to act or has been removed or suspended under section 77.1; and (b) unless decided otherwise by unanimous consent of the Assembly, the person to be appointed has been selected by unanimous agreement of a panel composed of one member of the Assembly from each recognized party, chaired by the Speaker who is a non-voting member. 2…

77.4 The Lieutenant Governor in Council may, by order, grant a former Clerk of the Legislative Assembly the right to use the honorific title “The Honourable” in English or “l’honorable” in French. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2018, c. 17, Sched. 23, s. 4 - 06/12/2018 2020, c. 15, s. 8 - 14/07/2020 2022, c. 25, s. 4 - 08/12/2022

77.5 (1) The Assembly shall, by order, appoint the Sergeant-at-Arms. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Selection by panel (2) Unless decided otherwise by unanimous consent of the Assembly, an order shall be made under subsection (1) only if the person to be appointed has been selected by unanimous agreement of a panel composed of one member of the Assembly from each recognized party, chaired by the Speaker who is a non-voting member. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Definition (3) In this section, “recognized party” has the same meaning as in subsection 62 (5). 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Transition (4) The Sergeant-at-Arms who is in office immediately before the day the Legislative Assembly Amendment Act, 2022 receives Royal Assent continues to hold office until a person is appointed under this section as Sergeant-at-Arms. For greater certainty, the Sergeant-at-Arms who is in office immediately before the day the Legislativ…

77.6 (1) The Assembly may, by order passed by a vote of at least two thirds of the members of the Assembly, remove or suspend the Sergeant-at-Arms from office for cause. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Suspension if Assembly not in session (2) If the Assembly is not in session, the Board of Internal Economy may on unanimous agreement suspend the Sergeant-at-Arms for cause. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Duration of suspension (3) A suspension under subsection (1) continues until revoked by order of the Assembly or until the Sergeant-at-Arms is removed from office pursuant to subsection (1). 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Same (4) Unless the Board of Internal Economy revokes the suspension before the next sitting of the Assembly, a suspension under subsection (2) continues until revoked by order of the Assembly or until the Sergeant-at-Arms is removed from office pursuant to subsection (1). 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Same (5) Despit…

77.7 (1) The Sergeant-at-Arms shall designate an individual from among the employees of the Office of the Assembly who shall have the powers and duties of the Sergeant-at-Arms if the Sergeant-at-Arms is absent or unable to fulfil the duties of his or her office. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Designation in writing (2) A designation under subsection (1) shall be in writing to the Speaker. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Powers and duties (3) The individual designated under subsection (1) shall have the powers and duties of the Sergeant-at-Arms unless a temporary Sergeant-at-Arms is appointed under section 77.8. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Salary (4) The Board of Internal Economy may increase the salary of an individual who assumes the powers and duties of the Sergeant-at-Arms under subsection (1) in such circumstances as the Board considers appropriate. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Removal or suspension (5) Section 77.6 applies in…

77.8 (1) If the Sergeant-at-Arms is unable to fulfil the duties of his or her office or the office becomes vacant, the Assembly may, by order, appoint a temporary Sergeant-at-Arms. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Selection by panel (2) Unless decided otherwise by unanimous consent of the Assembly, an order shall be made under subsection (1) only if the person to be appointed has been selected by unanimous agreement of a panel composed of one member of the Assembly from each recognized party, chaired by the Speaker who is a non-voting member. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Appointment if Assembly not in session (3) If, while the Assembly is not in session, the Sergeant-at-Arms is unable to fulfil the duties of his or her office or the office becomes vacant, the Board of Internal Economy may appoint a temporary Sergeant-at-Arms. 2022, c. 25, s. 4. Powers, salary and benefits (4) A temporary Sergeant-at-Arms shall …

78 (1) The employees of the Office of the Assembly have such duties and functions, (a) as may be provided for in an Act or an Order of the Assembly; and (b) as may be prescribed by the Board of Internal Economy. 2020, c. 15, s. 9; 2022, c. 25, s. 5 (1). Transition (2) Anything prescribed by the Speaker under clause (1) (b) as it read before the Legislative Assembly Amendment Act, 2022 received Royal Assent is continued as though it were prescribed by the Board of Internal Economy under clause (1) (b). 2022, c. 25, s. 5 (2). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 9 - 14/07/2020 2022, c. 25, s. 5 (1, 2) - 08/12/2022

79 (1) The Speaker shall present the estimates of the sums of money that will be required to be provided by the Legislature for the purposes of this Act to the Board of Internal Economy who shall review such estimates and make such alterations as it considers proper, and shall thereafter concur in such estimates. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 79 (1). laid before Assembly (2) The Speaker shall cause the estimates to be laid before the Assembly. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 79 (2).

80 (1) The Speaker shall establish, maintain and be accountable for a fund to be known as the Legislative Assembly Fund. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 80 (1). Bank account (2) The Speaker shall maintain an account with any bank listed in Schedule I or II to the Bank Act (Canada) and designated by the Board of Internal Economy for the deposit of money paid into the Legislative Assembly Fund. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 80 (2); 2002, c. 8, Sched. I, s. 15. Fiscal year (3) The fiscal year for the Legislative Assembly Fund shall be the same as the fiscal year for the Consolidated Revenue Fund. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 80 (3). Record (4) The Speaker shall keep a record of all money received for or disbursed from the Legislative Assembly Fund. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 80 (4). Annual report (5) The Speaker shall make an annual report to the Board of Internal Economy respecting the receipts and disburse…

81 The money required from time to time for the purposes of this Act shall be paid out of money appropriated by the Assembly for the purposes of this Act and shall be paid into the Legislative Assembly Fund by the Minister of Finance upon the requisition, from time to time, of the Speaker. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 81; 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (5). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (5) - 15/12/2005

82 (1) When, because the Legislature is adjourned, prorogued or dissolved or because the urgency of other public business prevents the Legislature from considering estimates or supplementary estimates, money is urgently required for the purposes of this Act before it has been appropriated, the Minister of Finance may, subject to the approval of the Lieutenant Governor in Council, advance the required money for the use of the Speaker upon the written request of the Board of Internal Economy, and such money shall be paid into the Legislative Assembly Fund. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 82 (1); 2005, c. 35, s. 3 (5). Advances repayable out of money to be appropriated (2) All money advanced by the Minister of Finance under subsection (1) shall be deemed to be an interest free loan repayable from money to be appropriated by the Legislature for the purposes of this Act. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 82 …

83 (1) A payment shall be made out of the Legislative Assembly Fund only if it is authorized by, (a) the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker; and (b) the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly or such other person authorized by the Speaker. 2020, c. 15, s. 10. Signature (2) The Speaker may authorize the use of facsimile signatures on cheques to be affixed thereto by printing, lithographing, engraving or by other mechanical means. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 83 (2). Destruction of cancelled cheques (3) The Speaker, with the approval of the Auditor General, may authorize the destruction, from time to time, of paid and cancelled cheques. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 83 (3); 2004, c. 17, s. 32. Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2004, c. 17, s. 32 - 30/11/2004 2020, c. 15, s. 10 - 14/07/2020

84 (1) During the period of thirty days next following the end of a fiscal year there may be paid out of the Legislative Assembly Fund an amount, not exceeding the unexpended balance in the Fund at the end of such fiscal year, for the purpose of discharging any debt or obligation that was incurred during such fiscal year, and the expenditure may be charged in the accounts of such fiscal year, but any debts or obligations that remain undischarged at the end of such period of thirty days shall be paid out of the Legislative Assembly Fund for the ensuing fiscal year. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 84 (1). Unexpended money to be paid to Minister (2) All money that remains unexpended in the Legislative Assembly Fund after the thirty-day period following the end of a fiscal year shall be paid to the Minister of Finance and become part of the Consolidated Revenue Fund. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 84 (2)…

85 (1) Any member of the Assembly or the Chair or Clerk of a committee of the Assembly may apply to the Speaker and the Speaker may authorize an accountable advance out of the Legislative Assembly Fund for the purpose of meeting disbursements for travel or other contingencies, or making payments on account of expenses incurred or to be incurred. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 85 (1); 2020, c. 15, s. 11. Idem (2) If, at the termination of the fiscal year in which an advance was made, no accounting or repayment of the advance has been received, such advance shall be accounted for or repaid within fifteen days thereafter. R.S.O. 1990, c. L.10, s. 85 (2). Section Amendments with date in force (d/m/y) 2020, c. 15, s. 11 - 14/07/2020