Cabinet welcomed the comprehensive legislative agenda that will be advanced in the House of Representatives on Monday, 16 June 2026, describing the measures as significant steps toward strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s legal framework, enhancing public safety, modernizing governance, improving public health, and deepening international cooperation.
Cabinet noted the introduction of several important bills for their first reading, including the Citizenship by Investment (Amendment) Bill, 2026; the Sexual Offences Bill, 2026; the Theft Bill, 2026; the Voluntary Bill of Indictment Bill, 2026; the Plea Negotiations and Agreement Bill, 2026; the Cannabis (Amendment) Bill, 2026; the Workplace Violence and Harassment (Prevention) Bill, 2026; the Mental Health Bill, 2026; and the Medical Laboratories Bill, 2026.
The Government views these measures as critical components of its ongoing programme of legislative reform aimed at modernizing the justice system, improving workplace protections, strengthening healthcare regulation, and ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda’s laws remain responsive to contemporary realities.
Cabinet also welcomed the advancement of several bills through their second and third readings, including the Fatal Accidents Bill, the Magistrates Code of Procedure (Amendment) Bill, the Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill, the Voluntary Bill of Indictment Bill, and the Plea Negotiations and Agreement Bill. These reforms are expected to improve the administration of justice, enhance protections for citizens, and provide greater efficiency within the legal system.
In the area of border security and immigration management, Cabinet noted the progress of the Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Bill and the Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record Bill. These measures will strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s ability to manage migration, improve border security, and align national systems with international best practices.
Cabinet further welcomed the proposed resolutions ratifying several international agreements and treaties. These included agreements providing for mutual visa exemptions and enhanced travel facilitation between Antigua and Barbuda and the Republic of Kenya, the Republic of Benin, the Republic of Ghana, the Republic of Rwanda, and the United Arab Emirates for diplomatic and official passport holders. Cabinet noted that these agreements will strengthen diplomatic relations, facilitate business and tourism exchanges, and support Antigua and Barbuda’s foreign policy objectives.
Additionally, Cabinet welcomed the ratification of the amendment to the Constitution of the International Labour Organization (ILO), reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to international labour standards and cooperation. Cabinet also noted the ratification of amendments to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, which will further strengthen the country’s engagement within the global aviation community.
Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing a modern legislative agenda that promotes economic growth, social justice, public safety, international cooperation, and the overall development of Antigua and Barbuda.