Six Bills Scheduled for First and Second Readings in the National Assembly on July 31, 2025

Paragraph 1: Overview of the National Assembly Sitting

The National Assembly of Saint Kitts and Nevis is scheduled to convene on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the National Assembly Chambers in Basseterre. This session promises significant legislative activity, with three bills slated for their first reading and another three progressing to their second reading. This legislative push underscores the government’s commitment to good governance, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and upholding the rule of law as cornerstones of its agenda. The proceedings will be broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM) and affiliated radio stations, as well as on television channels 5 (St. Kitts) and 98 (Nevis). The session will also be live-streamed on www.zizonline.com, ensuring broad public access to the legislative process.

Paragraph 2: Introduction of New Legislation

Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, who also holds portfolios for Finance, National Security, Citizenship and Immigration, Health, and Social Security, will spearhead the introduction of three new bills. These include the Banking (Amendment) Bill, 2025, the Eastern Caribbean Asset Management Corporation Agreement (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Special Sustainability Zones Authorisation Bill, 2025. These bills will undergo their first reading, marking the initial stage of the legislative process where the bills are formally presented to the Assembly. The specific details of each bill will be revealed during this introductory phase, offering insights into the government’s legislative priorities and proposed policy changes.

Paragraph 3: Advancement of Existing Legislation

Beyond introducing new legislation, the National Assembly will address bills that have already undergone their first reading. Prime Minister Drew will lead the second reading of the National Lotteries Authority Bill, 2025, and the Gaming Control (Amendment) Bill, 2025, both of which were initially presented to the Assembly on May 15, 2025. The second reading provides an opportunity for detailed debate and scrutiny of the bills’ provisions, allowing members to propose amendments and discuss the potential impact of the legislation. This stage plays a crucial role in shaping the final form of the bills before they proceed to further legislative stages.

Paragraph 4: Focus on Industrial Designs and Intellectual Property

Attorney General Garth Wilkin, who is also the Minister responsible for Justice and Legal Affairs, will guide the second reading of the Industrial Designs Bill, 2025. This bill, initially introduced on July 10, 2025, likely addresses the protection of intellectual property rights related to industrial designs. By modernizing and strengthening the legal framework surrounding industrial designs, the government aims to foster innovation and creativity within the country, while also providing legal safeguards for designers and businesses involved in this sector. This bill’s progression signifies the government’s commitment to promoting a conducive environment for economic growth and development.

Paragraph 5: Government’s Commitment to Transparency and Public Access

The government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has demonstrated a commitment to transparency by ensuring public access to legislative proceedings and documents. The live broadcasting and streaming of the National Assembly session, along with the online availability of the bills on the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service website (www.sknis.gov.kn) and Facebook page, exemplify this commitment. This open approach empowers citizens to stay informed about the legislative process, understand proposed policy changes, and engage with their elected representatives on matters of public interest. This level of transparency contributes to a more participatory and accountable democratic system.

Paragraph 6: Implications and Future Directions

The upcoming National Assembly sitting represents an important step in shaping the legal and regulatory landscape of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The bills under consideration cover diverse areas, ranging from financial regulations and gaming control to intellectual property protection and sustainable development initiatives. By addressing these policy domains, the government aims to enhance the country’s economic resilience, promote responsible economic growth, and strengthen the legal framework protecting individual and business interests. The outcomes of the upcoming session will hold significant implications for the future development trajectory of the nation, and the public is encouraged to engage with the legislative process to contribute to a well-informed and inclusive policy-making environment.