Ontario expected to extend its state of emergency today

Ontario is planning on extending the province’s state of emergency amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Premier Doug Ford, the province is looking to extend it for 28 days, until June 30, and will be looking to make its decision on Tuesday at Queen’s Park.

During his daily press conference on Monday, Ford said that extending the state of emergency allows the province the ability to make quick decisions immediately.

He also said it would allow Ontario to get “over the hump” and Ford wants to make sure that everyone is safe and healthy.

On May 12, the Ontario government officially extended the Declaration of Emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act until June 2.

At the time, the decision was based on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health and with the approval of the Ontario legislature.

The state of emergency in the province was first issued on March 17.

As Ontario gradually and safely reopens, the government has further extended most of the emergency orders to June 9 to protect public health and safety from the coronavirus while easing some restrictions.

Over the past weeks, all retail stores with a street entrance, seasonal businesses as well as health and community service providers have been permitted to open or expand their services provided these workplaces ensure physical distancing safety measures are in place to protect the public.

The government has also permitted the reopening of some outdoor recreational amenities, including outdoor sports facilities and multi-use fields, off-leash dog areas, and outdoor picnic sites, benches and shelters in parks and recreational areas.

A number of restrictions remain in place during the state of emergency, including the closure of schools, overnight summer camps, and bars and restaurants except for takeout and delivery. Restrictions also continue for social gatherings of more than five people, and staff redeployment rules for long-term care homes and congregate settings like retirement homes and women’s shelters are still in place. Outdoor playgrounds, play structures and equipment, fitness equipment, public swimming pools, and outdoor water facilities remain closed.