Auto insurance overhaul and bail reform among Ontario changes coming July 1

Ontario drivers will see significant changes to their insurance options starting July 1, while the federal government brings in tougher bail and sentencing rules aimed at violent and repeat offenders.

On the insurance side, nine benefits currently mandatory — including non-earner benefits, housekeeping, visitor expense, caregiver and income replacement benefits, as well as coverage for damage to personal items and lost educational, death, and funeral expenses — will become optional for drivers when renewing or choosing plans. Medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits will remain mandatory.

The Ford government frames this as "empowering Ontario's drivers by enabling more consumer choice," but insurance expert Daniel Ivans warns the savings from opting out often pale against the financial risks if something goes wrong.

If your policy renews on or after July 1, it will automatically keep the same benefits you have unless you opt out in writing. New policies starting July 1 will include only mandatory benefits, with insurers offering optional coverages separately.

Federally, over 80 targeted changes to the Criminal Code take effect aimed at cracking down on violent and organized crime, home invasion, human trafficking, and car theft. The reforms make bail harder to get for accused repeat and violent offenders by creating new "reverse onus" rules, meaning the accused must show why they should be released rather than the Crown proving they should stay detained.

Also starting in July, the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit replaces the GST/HST credit. Despite the new name, eligibility and payment calculation remain unchanged. Payments begin July 3, and a 25 per cent increase to the benefit amount takes effect — staying in place for five years through 2031.