You may have heard about Bill 33, Ontario’s new proposed bill. While the name may sound broad and far-fetched, the bill has real impacts for Waterloo students. Understanding what’s at stake can help us make informed decisions and raise our voices where it matters. 

What is Bill 33? 

Bill 33 is the Supporting Children and Students Act. It proposes changes to child and family services, as well as Ontario’s education systems. It proposes that student associations comply with government regulations on ancillary fees, which could change how fees are collected, and in turn impact the services we’re able to offer. 

Why it Matters 

Currently, Waterloo students collectively decide on many of their fees through a democratic process. These fees are vital in funding everything and anything WUSA offers, from advocacy and student-run services to events and commercial operations. Bill 33 can introduce broad opt-out mechanisms, giving students the choice to decline these fees even after they have been approved through a democratic vote. 

On the surface, opting out seems like an added layer of flexibility and student choice, but the reality is far less optimistic. This significantly impacts WUSA’s ability to provide essential services, including the Food Support Service, Glow, RAISE, events, advocacy work, and more. Students have identified these services as critical to their success and wellness, and heavily rely on these services, especially as the University faces growing financial pressures. In many cases, it is student associations that are stepping in to fund programs and supports that post-secondary institutions themselves cannot afford to sustain. Not only that, undermining the democratic process through opt-outs also weakens student governance. It hinders the ability of student associations to govern and fund their own organization. 

What We’ve Done 

WUSA has been actively engaged in this issue to ensure your student voice is heard. 

• WUSA submitted formal feedback to the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, as well as to all local MPPs. We urged the government to protect democratically approved student fees, recognize the oversight and choice mechanisms already in place, and consult directly with student leaders to fully understand the impact. 

• WUSA hosted a roundtable with Marit Stiles (Leader of the Official Opposition), Catherine Fife (MPP for Waterloo), as well as Peggy Sattler (NDP Shadow Minister for Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security). We also discussed with student representatives from Laurier, Conestoga, the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA), the College Students Association, and other student-facing organizations. Together, we discussed the potential impacts of Bill 33 and our concerns about the state of the post-secondary sector. 

• Looking Ahead: This fall, we are coordinating closely with OUSA and other student associations to ensure a unified response if Bill 33 proceeds in its current form. We will continue to monitor closely and advocate for meaningful student experiences. 

What Students Can Do 

• Sign the petition!  

• Email your MPP. Tell them about the student services you use and how Bill 33 threatens them. You can find your MPP by searching by your postal code at Current MPPs | Legislative Assembly of Ontario. 

The Bottom Line 

Bill 33 isn’t just another piece of provincial legislation. It reshapes how student life is funded, governed, and sustained. By staying informed and engaged, we can make sure our collective voice is heard and the services we rely on continues to thrive.