Bill 67, Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day Act, 2025

Summary#

This Ontario bill would create an annual day to thank and recognize hospitality workers. It sets February 23 each year as Hospitality Workers Appreciation Day.

• Names a specific day to honor people who work in restaurants, hotels, event venues, catering, and related services.
• The day is symbolic. It does not create a day off, bonus pay, or new legal rights.
• Encourages public messages, events, and recognition by the province, cities, employers, and community groups.
• Takes effect as soon as it becomes law.

What it means for you#

• Hospitality workers

  • You may see public thanks, social media posts, and workplace events on February 23.
  • No automatic paid time off or extra pay is included.
  • Could help raise pride in your work and public awareness of your role.

• Employers (restaurants, hotels, venues, caterers)

  • A set date to run appreciation events, promotions, or staff awards.
  • Opportunity for marketing and hiring outreach tied to the day.
  • No new mandates or reporting requirements.

• Residents and customers

  • You may see province-wide campaigns encouraging people to thank hospitality workers or support local businesses.
  • Community events or discounts may be offered, at the choice of businesses.

• Local governments and community groups

  • Option to issue proclamations, host events, or partner with schools and tourism boards.
  • No required programs are created by the bill.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

• Recognizes a large workforce that often goes unnoticed, boosting morale and respect.
• Encourages residents to support local restaurants, hotels, and events, which could help the local economy.
• Provides a simple, low-cost way for the province and communities to celebrate service workers.
• Helps promote tourism by highlighting the people who make visitor experiences possible.

Opponents' View#

• The day is symbolic and does not address pay, benefits, or working conditions.
• Could be seen as “feel-good” recognition without concrete support for workers.
• Any government messaging or events, while small, still use time and resources.
• Businesses may feel social pressure to participate even though there is no requirement.