On March 13, 2026, the Ontario government announced a proposal to permit retail businesses to open on Family Day and Victoria Day. If approved, eligible retail employees would have the option to choose whether to work on these holidays and receive public holiday pay plus time-and-a-half premium pay for hours worked, in addition to the public holiday pay.
Ontario retail employers should:
- Review scheduling and staffing plans;
- Ensure payroll systems are updated to accurately calculate public holiday pay and applicable premium pay; and
- Communicate early with employees about potential holiday work opportunities and expectations.
The National Payroll Institute will monitor these changes and advise its members once the legislation takes effect.