Plain-English civics

How Ontario bills become law

Ontario bills usually move through first reading, second reading, committee review, third reading, and Royal Assent in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.

Ontario bill stages

First reading introduces the bill. Second reading debates the idea behind the bill. Committee review studies details and may hear from the public. Third reading is the final debate and vote.

If the bill passes all required steps, Royal Assent makes it law. Some laws take effect immediately, while others start on a date set in the bill or by regulation.

Official sources

PoliticalData.ca explainers are civic education, not legal advice. Official legislative records control if there is a conflict.