PACKED AGENDA: House of Representatives to Debate Vehicles and Road Traffic Fees
This morning, the House of Representatives will reconvene in the parliament chamber to discuss various legislative measures proposed by the government, including the contentious Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
The aim is to increase the annual licensing fees for motor vehicle owners. This proposed increase has sparked significant public discourse, prompting the government to modify the initial fee structure in response to public concerns.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced that the proposed amendment will implement a $100 increase for motor cars such as sedans and compacts. In contrast, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), commercial vehicles, and heavy-duty equipment will face a 40 percent hike in fees.
However, certain exemptions are included for taxis, buses, hearses, ambulances, and tractors.
Last week, a demonstration organized by supporters of the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) took place outside the parliament building, protesting the planned fee increases.
Despite this opposition, PM Browne noted the overall acceptance among the public for the need to raise the fees, emphasizing that the additional revenue will be directed toward urgent upgrades to the country’s road network.
“The people have been embracing the increase, recognizing that aside from the adjustment made for SUVs in 2005, there has been no increase in license fees for many years. An adjustment is long overdue, especially with the noble aim of financing the refurbishment of our nation’s roads,” Browne stated.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister assured the public that stringent measures would be implemented by both the lending institutions, ACB Caribbean and the Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank, as well as the Ministry of Works, to ensure that the funds are utilized solely for their intended purpose.
“No one should be concerned about accountability, as systems will be established to maintain transparency in the use of these funds,” Browne concluded.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Think Before You Press Send: Jeffers Urges Greater Care in Workplace Communication
Management consultant Vernon A. Jeffers Sr. warns that careless emails, unnecessary copying and emotionally charged responses can damage workplace relationships and unnecessarily escalate issues.
By Cory Wayland
Alzarri Joseph Lands US$230,000 Gulf Giants Deal in ILT20 Auction
Antiguan fast bowler Alzarri Joseph was snapped up by Gulf Giants for US$230,000 in one of the biggest deals of the DP World ILT20 auction.
By Cory Wayland
Chief Magistrate Visits Prison, Leads Workshop on Treatment of Inmates
Ngaio Emanuel meets new Prison Superintendent Albert Wade and leads a workshop on prisoner treatment, use of force, ethics and remand deductions.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Jury Acquits Man of Serious Indecency and Indecent Assault After Four-Hour Deliberation
An 8–1 majority verdict cleared the accused of both charges arising from allegations made during a hot-stone full-body massage at a spa in February 2025.
By Cory Wayland
Comments (4)
Robert March 3, 2025, 11:59 AM
Stone March 3, 2025, 10:10 AM
Luka Johnson March 3, 2025, 9:35 AM
Juju Bee March 3, 2025, 8:29 AM
This seems targeted at people with SUV’s .
Why not 40% across the board.
So people like me have to pay the price to have the roads rehabilitated