The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is preparing a broad slate of new legislation for Parliament, covering workplace sexual harassment, child abuse, electronic crime, public safety, and major health reforms.
Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin formally presented the legislative agenda on Wednesday, outlining the measures expected to be debated at the upcoming parliamentary sitting. He described the package as part of the Government's ongoing effort to strengthen governance, modernise national systems, and improve protections for citizens.
Among the most closely watched proposals are amendments addressing workplace violence and harassment, including sexual harassment. Officials say the measures are designed to strengthen protections for employees and create safer working environments.
The broader legislative package also includes amendments to laws governing sexual offences, plea negotiations, policing, fire and rescue services, forensic services, and electronic crimes. Benjamin said the proposed reforms reflect a coordinated, whole-of-government approach aimed at tackling emerging social and security challenges while reinforcing the effectiveness of public institutions.
The Government is also preparing legislation on vagrancy and child protection. Proposed updates to vagrancy laws seek to modernise the legal framework surrounding homelessness and public order through more balanced and practical measures. Amendments to child abuse legislation are expected to strengthen safeguards for minors, improve reporting systems, and impose tougher penalties on offenders — part of what the Government describes as a zero-tolerance approach to the abuse and exploitation of children.
Several major health-related bills are expected under the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, covering food safety, mental health, pharmacy regulation, and medical laboratories — all aimed at raising public health standards and oversight.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration is expected to table measures addressing immigration and passport processes, as well as legislation relating to advance passenger information systems to strengthen border security and international compliance.
Under the Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnerships, proposed amendments to the Citizenship by Investment Programme framework and a new Prices Bill aimed at enhancing consumer protection are also on the agenda.
The Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation is set to introduce amendments relating to disabilities and equal opportunities legislation as part of efforts to advance inclusion and equity.
Benjamin said the legislative agenda reflects the Government's determination to build a safer, fairer, and more resilient country. He noted the proposed measures are the result of extensive consultations and policy planning, and encouraged stakeholders to participate meaningfully in the parliamentary process as debate on the legislation moves forward.
