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5 Things Every Canadian Should Know About Their Money Today

From a rate hold to a sovereign wealth fund — here's what's moving the needle on your finances right now. 01 — DEADLINE Today is the tax filing deadline — and your refund may be a lifeline April 30 is the last day most Canadians can file their 2025 income tax return without penalty. With the cost of living still squeezing household budgets, many Canadians are counting on their refund as a financial cushion. Filing late triggers a 5% penalty on any balance owing, plus 1% for each additional month. If you haven't filed yet, the CRA's NETFILE portal is still open — act before midnight. 02 — INTEREST RATES Bank of Canada holds steady at 2.25% — no relief yet for borrowers The Bank of Canada kept its policy rate at 2.25% yesterday — the third consecutive hold of 2026. Governor Tiff Macklem cited rising inflation driven by higher global energy prices tied to the Middle East conflict, while U.S. tariffs continue to weigh on exports. CPI inflation climbed to 2.4% in Ma...

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Ontario Introduces Comprehensive Plan to Limit Cellphone Use and Ban Vaping in Schools

 

In a groundbreaking move, the Ontario government has unveiled an ambitious plan to reduce distractions in classrooms and enhance student well-being. The plan, which aims to standardize and strengthen provincewide measures, addresses the rising concerns related to cellphone usage and vaping among students.

Key Measures:

  1. Cellphone Restrictions:

    • Students in kindergarten through Grade 6 will be required to keep their phones on silent and out of sight for the entire school day, unless explicitly permitted by an educator.
    • For students in Grades 7 to 12, cellphones will not be allowed during class time unless explicitly directed by the educator.
    • The policy emphasizes “out of sight and out of mind,” restoring focus, safety, and common sense in Ontario schools.
  2. Social Media Removal:

    • Social media websites will be removed from all school networks and devices. This step aims to minimize distractions and promote a more focused learning environment.
  3. Vaping Ban:

    • Vaping will be banned in all Ontario schools.
    • Students caught using or carrying vaping devices will be required to surrender them, with parents immediately notified of the situation.
    • The government has allocated $30 million in the 2024 budget to install vape detectors and enhance security in schools.
  4. Supports for Mental Health and Parent Engagement:

    • The government will invest $17.5 million in new wrap-around supports for student mental health and parent engagement.
    • Initiatives include providing support for students at risk of addictive behaviors and developing webinars and resources for parents and students to address the adverse effects of vaping and excessive cellphone usage.

This comprehensive plan reflects Ontario’s commitment to prioritizing student learning, safety, and well-being. By addressing distractions head-on, the province aims to create a more conducive environment for education and growth. 

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