If enacted, Bill 53 would allow victims of abuse to leave more easily.

A bill that would allow victims of domestic violence to get out of rental and lease agreements quickly has passed second reading in the Ontario legislature.

Under Ottawa Liberal MPP Yasir Naqvi’s bill, those fleeing dangerous and abusive relationships would only need to provide a minimum 28 days notice to terminate a lease if they can provide a peace bond, a restraining order or a document from police confirming a domestic violence investigation.

Under the current law, all tenants must provide no less than 60 days notice to a landlord to terminate a lease, and if in a fixed-term lease, must wait until the final 60 days of the lease period before being allowed to do so. 

However if the Mr. Naqvi’s bill is passed, families fleeing abuse would not only be able to leave much earlier, they would also be exempted from having to pay a full two months’ rent to break a lease.

“Victims of domestic violence already face severe barriers toward reporting abuse and fleeing dangerous situations,” Mr. Naqvi said in a statement following the passing of the second reading.

“By removing barriers to flee a rented home, we are giving victims more opportunities to protect themselves from violence and abuse, and begin a new life in a safe home.”