Bill 68: Plan to Protect Ontario Act (Budget Measures), 2025 (No. 2)

This bill touches a wide range of Ontario businesses. Manufacturers investing in buildings, machinery, or processing equipment in Ontario can claim an expanded 15% tax credit (for non-CCPCs) or an additional 5% on the existing 10% credit (for CCPCs) on eligible capital expenditures up to $20 million, making it directly relevant to factory owners, food processors, and industrial operators buying new equipment or expanding facilities. Shortline railway operators maintaining track in Ontario can claim a new tax credit based on track miles and maintenance spending. Credit unions across Ontario gain the ability to sell securities to non-members and allow non-member shareholders to elect up to 20% of directors, affecting how these financial co-ops raise capital. Pharmacies and group insurance providers must comply with new rules requiring equal drug reimbursement across all pharmacy operators, which affects independent pharmacists, chain drugstores, and the insurers they deal with. Ontario corporations must file new returns disclosing individuals with significant control, adding a compliance burden for incorporated small businesses. Conservation authorities province-wide will face oversight from the new Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency, which can issue binding directions and charge fees, impacting organizations that handle development permits and environmental reviews. Employers involved in corporate amalgamations face a specific Employer Health Tax filing deadline change.