Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (BLG) is pleased to announce that the Ontario government is modernizing its Construction Laws following the expert review of Ontario's Construction Lien Act conducted by Bruce Reynolds, leader of BLG's International Construction Projects Group, and Sharon Vogel, national leader of BLG's Construction Group.

Attorney General Yasir Naqvi introduced legislation yesterday that would, if passed, modernize the lien and holdback process, introduce needed rules to ensure Ontario construction workers get paid, on time, for the work they do, and make the dispute resolution process faster and simpler.

Construction law experts Bruce Reynolds and Sharon Vogel led a thorough and comprehensive review of the Construction Lien Act. The proposed legislation is based on the recommendations in the report and feedback from experts and industry groups.

Bruce and Sharon said: "Our work on the report, Striking the Balance, and our subsequent work on the bill, has been directed towards improving the flow of funds on construction projects in Ontario. Over the past two years, we have worked closely with the government and industry groups to provide advice that captures the key concerns of the many people who work in this important sector. We are very pleased with the introduction of the bill and look forward to the availability of innovations such as promptness of payment and dispute resolution through adjudication."

If passed, the legislative and regulatory changes would come into effect in 2018.

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