Federal Red Tape Review Can Draw on Ontario’s Playbook

Federal Review Underway
In July 2025, the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat launched a 60-day exercise to identify and cut unnecessary federal regulations. A new Red Tape Reduction Office is leading the charge. Departments and agencies must propose ways to: 

• Remove outdated regulation 
• Reduce duplication with provincial rules 
• Make it easier to access and deliver services 

As the federal government engages on this journey, the experience of the Government of Ontario in leading an ongoing red tape reduction process since 2018 offers valuable insight for both officials and stakeholders. 

Lessons from Ontario
Ontario’s experience since 2018 on many red tape reduction items provide three key takeaways: 

1. Track the origin story:  Every rule had a rational purpose at one point. Understanding why a regulation was introduced helps avoid unintended gaps when you remove it. It can also help prove the case that the context which existed at the time a rule was introduced is no longer relevant, thus the rule is no longer required. 
2. Align with priorities: Ontario tied most of its red tape items to its broader policy agenda—economic growth, faster approvals, and public safety. That kept the process focused and shielded it from political pushback. 
3. Aim for quiet wins: Successful red tape reductions are rarely headline makers. They streamline internal processes or clarify existing rules, delivering quick benefits without fanfare. 

What to Expect in the Next 60 Days
The Carney government has been particularly focused on the seven priorities identified in the single mandate letter he sent Ministers: 

• Strike a new security and economic deal with the U.S. and build new relationships with allies 
• Remove internal trade barriers 
• Improve affordability 
• Build more homes 
• Strengthen Canada’s defence, border security, and law enforcement 
• Reform immigration 
• Cut government spending 

Regulatory changes that support these goals—and that face minimal stakeholder resistance—will rise to the top. With only two months to act, officials will likely focus on low hanging fruit and defer complex proposals to a later phase. 

What Red Tape Reviews Are and Aren’t  
Think of red tape reviews as a governmental spring cleaning. A time to rid oneself of clutter that is unnecessary and just getting in the way. The best red tape reduction initiatives either line up with a government’s core priorities or are simply good governance initiatives.  

The system of government must work its magic before we see the results. Ministers need to review ideas from their ministry and ones proposed from stakeholders to then shepherd them through the approvals process. 

Getting Your Proposal on the Radar
To influence Ottawa’s review: 

1. Build your case internally: Gather data and examples from your operations team, who often understand the impact of red tape most directly. Quantify how regulatory changes save time or costs. 
2. Map your champions: Identify the civil servants and ministers whose mandate aligns with your proposal. Brief them clearly and concisely. 
3. Anticipate pushback: Scan for stakeholders who might oppose your change. Address their concerns upfront to streamline approval. 

Next Steps for Stakeholders
Engage early. Provide concrete examples and estimated benefits. Focus on cuts that advance the government’s priorities and won’t spark controversy. Keeping proposals practical and well supported will help ensure they make the final cut.