As the year comes to a close the Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario (MVRO) is celebrating the successes of 2023, which saw some big advocacy wins for Ontario’s new car and truck retailers — particularly in the area of skilled trades and fines for curbsiders.
In a news release, the MVRO said changes were made to the education system so that students will be introduced to skilled trades at a younger age. And the minimum fine for curbsiders (illegal, unlicensed car dealers) has doubled from $2,500 to $5,000.
In 2023, the provincial government continued to show their “tremendous support for Ontario’s auto retail sector,” said Frank Notte, Director of Government Relations for the MVRO, in a statement. He added that Premier Doug Ford “is making crucial changes to support the sector.”
Some of the MVRO’s accomplishments for 2023 include the passing of Bill 139, which increases the minimum fine for curbsiders; a commitment to consult on the topic of allowing students in Grade 11 to transition to a full-time, skilled trades apprenticeship program; expanding the functionality of the Digital Dealer Registration program to include the registration of used vehicles, among other things; and doubling the federal Tradesperson’s Tool Deduction in Budget 2023 (it’s now $1,000).
“This deduction will greatly benefit auto technicians by lowering the cost of their tools,” said Notte.
The MVRO also managed to secure $18 million in provincial funding for the Preventing Auto Thefts (PAT) grant, which will help police in their fight against auto theft in Ontario.
