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Ontario Passes Controversial Housing Bill

Province passes legislation that overrides some municipal zoning laws and eliminates some development fees.

The Ontario government has passed a controversial housing legislation. 

Bill 23, also known as the "More Homes Built Faster Act", was first proposed by the Ford government about a month ago.

One of the most controversial aspects of the bill is freezing, reducing and exempting fees paid by developers. 

Brampton North MPP Graham Norton says the legislation will provide incentives for developers to build more homes. 

"We've put a lot of factors in here that we think will help incent the construction of more homes. Hopefully, people who are priced out of the market right now, they'll be able to eventually see a housing market where they'll be able to afford a home."

He also notes reducing developer fees will help address the issue of affordable housing, and organizations like Habitat for Humanity have supported the bill. 

Critics say reducing development fees could leave communities short by about $5 billion, which may result in higher property taxes or service cuts. 

The legislation also allows for up to three units on a single residential lot without bylaw amendments or municipal permissions.

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