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Enhancing Digital Security and Trust Act, 2024 (Subnational: Ontario)


Added by:   OECD analyst
Added on:   09 Sep 2026
Updated by:   OECD analyst
Updated on:   09 Sep 2026

In January 2025, Ontario brought the Enhancing Digital Security and Trust Act, 2024 (EDSTA) into force. EDSTA builds a foundation to support the responsible use of AI through: introducing a definition of “artificial intelligence system” in alignment with leading jurisdictions, and creating regulation-making authorities to set accountability, risk management and transparency requirements and technical standards around the use of AI systems for select public sector organisations.

Initiative overview

The Act has created a legislative foundation to strengthen cyber security, privacy protections, and responsible AI use in the select broader public sector entities. The legislation includes a definition for AI and allows government to set regulations related to AI use in the public sector. Progress is measured through enactment of the legislation, consultations, and development of regulations. Over time, and if regulations are approved, the Act is expected to improve digital trust, reduce cyber and privacy risks, and enable responsible AI use in the broader public sector.

Development of the Act reinforced the value of enabling legislation that provides a durable foundation while allowing future requirements to be refined as risks and technologies evolve. Engagement with stakeholders helped inform a balanced approach. Experience suggests that success depends on clear legislative intent, phased implementation, and alignment with existing privacy, cyber security, and digital governance frameworks.

About the policy initiative


Category:

  • Regulations, guidelines and standards

Initiative type:

  • Law/legislation/act (by legislative body)

Status:

  • Active

Start Year:

  • 2024

Binding:

  • Binding

Other relevant urls: