TORONTO, June 27, 2025 – “Ontario’s universities are proud of their longstanding commitment to transparency, accountability and student success. Our institutions have built strong, student-centered systems which include robust policies that reflect their dedication to access, research excellence and responsible governance. However, Bill 33 and its proposed regulatory powers, as currently drafted, raise serious concerns for the postsecondary sector as it conflicts with governing legislation, increases administrative burdens, and fails to address the root causes of student access challenges.
With a deep understanding of their own students and communities, Ontario universities are best placed to make decisions that support their unique mission and values. Ontario universities were designed with the principle of being autonomous entities, free from government interference and best positioned in meeting student needs. Bill 33 enters into areas where universities have well-established and rigorous systems and expertise that have served students well.
We urge the government to reconsider the scope of the Bill and proposed regulatory changes that would conflict with university missions, duplicate existing processes and undermine student success.
Ontario’s universities look forward to continuing to work in partnership to address the real challenges facing students – especially the urgent need for sustainable funding, expanded enrolment capacity to meet a growing demand by more than 80,000 Ontario students, and financial support for a secure and world-leading research ecosystem.
Together, we can ensure that Ontario remains a global leader in higher education—responsive to student needs, grounded in student success, and equipped to drive innovation and resiliency for the province at a time when we are facing severe economic threats from the US.”
– Steve Orsini, President and CEO, Council of Ontario Universities
Read the full submission here.