Senate Approves Vehicle and Road Traffic Amendment Bill

The Vehicle and Road Traffic Amendment Bill of 2025 has been approved by the Upper House and will now proceed to the Governor General for his assent into law.

The legislation sparked an intense debate about the government’s plans to increase the annual fees for motor vehicle licenses.

Many have been opposed to the legislation, which has seen protests by the opposition, the United Progressive Party.

In an effort to address public concerns, the Prime Minister announced an adjustment to the proposed 40 percent increase, which had already received approval from the Lower House, the House of Representatives.

During yesterday’s Senate deliberation, the Leader of Government Business, Senator Shenella Govia, emphasized the importance of raising these user fees, stating that the funds would be specifically allocated for urgent road repairs—a necessity highlighted by the ongoing road repair program that has resulted in traffic delays due to numerous secondary roads being closed.

Senator Govia argued that the proposed increase equates to just 28 cents a day for most vehicle owners, questioning how such a small amount could be seen as burdensome.

She called upon the driving public to contribute to the funding of the nation’s road network, which she described as being in dire need of attention.

However, the opposition, led by Senator David Massiah, stressed the importance of accountability from the Transport Board regarding the funds collected in previous years. This point resonated with members of the opposition both in the Senate and the Lower House.

In response, government senators defended the administration, asserting that claims of over-taxation among Antigua and Barbuda residents were unfounded. Senator Dwayne George characterized the Gaston Browne Administration as responsible and compassionate, committed to not imposing undue burdens on the populace.

Ultimately, after a passionate discourse, the Senate approved the bill, paving the way for its implementation.