Did the U.S. hit Canada with tariffs?

Yes. U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Feb. 1 — imposing a 25 per cent tariff on most goods and a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian energy.

In response to trade action, set to take effect on Feb. 4, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced counter-tariffs against $155 billion worth of American goods.

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• Doug Ford warns Trump’s 25% tariff could cost Ontario ‘500,000 jobs’
• Trump’s 25% tariff could affect 29,000 agricultural jobs: OGVG
• Trudeau to step down as PM, Liberal leader: Key employee takeaways

While it’s still possible for a trade war to be avoided, here are three key rights that non-unionized employees in Canada need to be aware of.

1. Can I be temporarily laid off?

In Canada, temporary layoffs are considered illegal — unless you agreed to the layoff or it’s addressed in your employment contract.

WATCH: Five facts about temporary layoffs on an episode of the Employment Law Show.

If you’re temporarily laid off due to the tariffs, or for any reason, contact an experienced employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.

You might be able to pursue full severance pay through a constructive dismissal claim.

SEE ALSO
• How to calculate severance pay in Canada
• Severance packages during a recession
• Employment Law Show: Things your employer can’t legally do

2. Can my employer make major changes to my job?

A trade war doesn’t give employers in Canada the right to make significant adjustments to the terms of...

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