Abstract: Science unquestionably plays a major role in almost all aspects of government work. The Ontario government has several ministries that deal directly with scientific information and management on a regular basis, such as the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Energy, and Research and Innovation, among many others. And yet, at a provincial level, there is little discussion about science policy as a whole or the role of science in policymaking. Concurrently, at a federal level, there is great controversy over the perceived "war on science.” This paper will seek to address the root of these issues, exploring the representation of science in a legislative context. A review of Hansard records on pertinent bills and Question Periods will be undertaken in order to assess house discussions of science and representation of “scientific fact.” Furthermore, data will be gathered on the incidence of scientific training among Members of Provincial Parliament, as the underrepresentation of scientists in this setting is seen to be a factor affecting science policy. Interviews will be conducted where possible with MPPs to develop this idea, with focus on those who have science backgrounds. The Legislative Assembly of Ontario will be put in a broader context through a cross-jurisdictional comparison, looking at science policy in other provinces and the federal government, and the potential for an independent science officer to manage this area of public policy.

Paper / Communication