ONTARIO — Ontario looks to adopt a new bill that would streamline innovative construction methods, such as mass timber, and speed up the building of more homes. Bill 185, referred to as “Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act, 2024,” is currently sitting at the second reading. As part of the bill, Ontario will be releasing the next edition of Ontario’s Building Code with a focus on increasing housing supply, supporting public safety, and innovations, according to the province. This includes increasing harmonization with the National Construction Codes. Once the new code launches, the province reports intentions to increase the use of advanced wood construction like mass timber and consult with fire-safety stakeholders on single-exit stairs in small residential buildings, as well as, improved safety measures for building residents and firefights. A new guide is set to be created under Bill 185, which would identify pathways for innovative product approvals.