Ontario Introduces Bill 194 – New Requirements for Cyber Security, AI and More June 19 2024
The Government of Ontario has introduced Bill 194, the Strengthening Cyber Security and Building Trust in the Public Sector Act, 2024. The bill proposes the Enhancing Digital Security and Trust Act, 2024 (EDSTA), which would introduce new requirements for cyber security, artificial intelligence (AI), and technology affecting minors in the public sector. The EDSTA would apply to institutions covered by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA) and the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), as well as children's aid societies and school boards. Schedule 2 of the bill also proposes amendments to FIPPA, including mandatory privacy impact assessments (PIAs), breach reporting obligations, and new powers for the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario (IPC). The bill is currently at Second Reading in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, with the public consultation period now closed.