Ontario banning NDAs in sexual misconduct cases by staff at colleges, universities

The Ontario government has introduced a bill that would ban non-disclosure agreements in sexual misconduct cases among postsecondary employees looking for work at a different institution.

The province says the legislation would also allow schools to fire employees who’ve committed sexual abuse against students. The new bill would also require postsecondary schools to have sexual misconduct policies and disciplinary measures for staff who break those rules.

“All students deserve to learn in a safe and supportive learning environment,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities.

“From day one, we have been clear: this government has zero tolerance for sexual assault, harassment, or any other forms of violence or misconduct. That’s why we are taking action to protect students from sexual violence and misconduct better on and off-campus.”

The legislation would amend the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Act.

The bill would also allow Toronto Metropolitan University to change its name from Ryerson University legally.

The school adopted its new name in April after a backlash against Egerton Ryerson, an architect of Canada’s residential school system.

“The proposed change of Ryerson University’s name to Toronto Metropolitan University supports our government’s efforts to ensure Ontario has a postsecondary system that embraces diversity and inclusivity and promotes success for all learners — including Indigenous learners — so they can find rewarding careers,” said Minister Dunlop.

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With files from Lucas Casaletto