Groves Hospital Now Under Nonprofit Law

Summary#

This bill would repeal two older, hospital‑specific laws for Groves Memorial Community Hospital. The hospital has already moved to Ontario’s general not‑for‑profit law, so these repeals finish that shift. It does not change medical care or funding.

• Repeals the 2002 act that originally created the hospital’s special legal status.
• Repeals the 2022 act that dealt with ownership of certain hospital property.
• Confirms the hospital now operates under Ontario’s Not‑for‑Profit Corporations Act, 2010 (the standard law for nonprofits).
• Makes the change effective once the bill receives Royal Assent (becomes law).

What it means for you#

• Patients and families

  • No change to services, appointments, or how you access care.
  • The hospital’s name, location, and programs stay the same.

• Hospital staff and volunteers

  • Day‑to‑day work does not change.
  • Governance and bylaws will follow Ontario’s standard rules for not‑for‑profit corporations instead of a special hospital act.

• Donors and community members

  • Fundraising and donations continue as before.
  • Property and governance matters will be handled under the general not‑for‑profit law rather than a hospital‑specific statute.

• Local governments and partners

  • No expected impact on local services or agreements.
  • Any legal references may need to be updated to reflect the hospital’s status under the Not‑for‑Profit Corporations Act, 2010.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

• This cleans up old, duplicative laws now that the hospital uses the standard not‑for‑profit framework.
• One clear legal framework reduces confusion and legal risk.
• Aligning with the province’s modern nonprofit law can improve governance and accountability.
• No disruption to patient care, staffing, or hospital programs.
• Administrative rules become simpler and more consistent with other community hospitals incorporated under general law.

Opponents' View#

• Removing hospital‑specific provisions could create uncertainty about any special property conditions that were in the old acts.
• Community members may want assurances that local commitments and safeguards continue under the new framework.
• Transitioning legal references (e.g., in agreements or policies) may take time and attention.
• Some may prefer the clarity of bespoke rules written directly into a statute rather than relying on general nonprofit law and bylaws.