A bill to protect child performers in Ontario has passed second reading in the legislature at Queen’s Park.

Although child labour is illegal in Ontario, many children perform in film, on television and stage, and in commercials. But performers unions ACTRA and Canadian Actor’s Equity say Ontario needs regulations to protect children on set, limiting the hours they must work, providing a healthy environment, and protecting their income.

NDP MPP Paul Harris introduced the bill in the last session of the legislature. But it died on the order paper when the spring election was called. He reintroduced it during the current session.

MPP Cheri de Novo told her colleagues that she was a child performer, and recalls being exhausted after a long day of rehearsals at the CBC.

All three parties supported the bill the last time around. ACTRA and Equity are calling on the Wynne government to fast-track Bill 17 so that young children are protected in a work environment.