As a citizen of Ontario and…

As a citizen of Ontario and a resident of the Region of Waterloo, the components of Bill 66 seem hastily conceived and not very well thought out as far as the consequences are concerned. While I agree with the notion of "cutting red tape", I think a lot of it has been put in place to protect consumers and the public in general. In particular, I find alarming the possible circumvention of the Planning act. Although I am not a developer, I see that the process of land development works fairly well in the Region of Waterloo and the outcomes are better, due to the public scrutiny and the control afforded by the Planning Act and the Provincial Policy Statement (2014).

Also, why repeal the Pawnbrokers Act? I can see it could be updated or streamlined, but do you really want to create a gray market for stolen goods just for the sake of "cutting red tape"?

I don't understand all the schedules of Bill 66, but from what I do know, it should not be presented to the Legislature as is. It won't be as dramatic, but careful thought should be given to whatever Provincial Acts and policies need improvement, and the Provincial government should proceed meticulously and carefully. Let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater.