Bill 242: Small Business Commissioner Act

This bill directly affects small business owners in Nova Scotia — think a retailer renting a storefront in Halifax, a tradesperson operating out of a leased commercial unit, or a small manufacturer dealing with unpaid invoices from a larger buyer. If you rent a commercial space and your landlord wants to kick you out for a renovation or demolition, you now have a right to written notice, proof the work is genuine, and compensation for moving costs and leasehold improvements you've put into the space. If you're dealing with a dispute over an unpaid invoice or a bad supply chain contract, you'll be required to go through mediation before you can take the matter to court. The new Commissioner also acts as an advocate, reviewing government rules and policies that may be putting unnecessary red tape on small businesses.