As the old saying goes, the only thing that stays the same is change. No matter which area of Canadian law you’re dealing with, you can bet that there are some changes in store for 2020.

Which new laws and updated regulations should employers in Canada be looking at now? These are some of the changes to monitor so you can maintain your Canadian compliance in 2020.

An Updated Canada Business Corporation Act

This act affects corporations operating anywhere in Canada. The federal government passed new legislation allowing for an amendment.

Public corporations incorporated under the CBCA will need to report on diversity in senior management and on boards of directors. The report must highlight women, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, and people who belong to visible minorities.

It’s worth noting many corporations won’t be affected by this regulation. Most corporations are private, not public. If you’re unsure, you should check. Usually, a corporation must elect to be considered public, although the Minister of National Revenue can designate a corporation as public.

The change speaks to a larger push for equality on the Canadian legal scene. Companies that wish to compete effectively and hire the best talent may want to examine the make-up of their workforce.

BC Changes Payroll

The province of BC is hiking its minimum wage over the next two years. Beginning in June 2020, minimum wage will rise to $14.60 per hour. In June 2021, it will increase to $15.20.

BC made another change that has affected your payroll already. Starting January 1, all provincial healthcare premiums were eliminated. While Group Plans remain active, you won’t be receiving invoices for MSP premiums any longer.

The province estimated the move would save individuals up to $900 and families up to $1,800 per year. That simplifies deductions from your payroll, since you no longer need to subtract the premiums from your employees’ paychecks.

New Canada-Wide Tax Rules for Corporations

This is a small, yet significant change that could affect your business. Federal legislation has been passed that’s designed to limit “rate shopping” among companies.

In essence, this move means corporations will now be taxed where their “substantive economic activities” take place. This could help your business lower your Canadian tax bill.

Updating Labor Standards

A few provinces have introduced new standards to protect workers. Quebec has updated its Labour Standards Act. The updates are aimed at placement and recruitment agencies. Those who place temporary foreign workers must ensure workers have the required documentation. Agencies are also required to ensure workers are paid no less than staff at the client company.

If you work with recruitment agencies in Quebec, then you’ll want to examine their practices. Client companies could get caught up in red tape if they’re working with a noncompliant agency.

Newfoundland and Labrador updated their provincial Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. Employers in the province must now have a written harassment prevention plan. They also need to conduct risk assessments, provide prevention training, and more.