Today, I sent a letter to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, the Hon. Nolan Quinn, with feedback on the Supporting Children and Students Act, 2025 (Bill 33).
On May 29, 2025, the Ontario government introduced Bill 33, a wide-ranging piece of legislation amending the Education Act, the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act, the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, and the Ombudsman Act.
The Bill was tabled with limited detail because it is largely enabling legislation, meaning the Minister is granted broad-based powers or the legislation is high-level with the intent of being refined through regulation. As a result, the most substantive requirements are set through the regulatory process following passage of the legislation with consultation. While the specific impacts will depend on regulations, Bill 33 signals a direction toward potentially increased provincial oversight of universities in areas including finance, admissions, and research.
As part of the consultation period, I felt it was important to showcase the exemplary job Queen's does when it comes to governing student fees. In my letter, you will read about this process and also the sentiments I have heard from the student body, regarding our strong desire to preserve our governance system for a robust fee slate that enables our stand-out student experience.
I also thank the student society presidents who signed on with their support.
Please read the full letter here: Bill 33 Letter