Parliament is expected to consider stronger sentences for serious firearm offences when lawmakers meet on Sept. 18 amid concerns about an increase in gun-related crime in Antigua and Barbuda.

Attorney General Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin told Cabinet that the sitting will include several measures intended to strengthen law enforcement, modernise the justice system and address firearm-related and other serious crimes.

Proposed amendments to the firearms legislation and the Magistrate’s Code of Procedure are expected to introduce stronger sentencing provisions and expand the powers available to the courts.

The Government intends to ask Parliament to approve a minimum sentence of 15 years for serious firearm offences handled in the Magistrates’ Court and a maximum sentence of 30 years in the High Court.

Cabinet said the legislative programme has taken on increased importance because of the recent upsurge in incidents involving firearms and the Government’s determination to strengthen the legal and institutional framework available to law enforcement agencies.

Lawmakers are also expected to consider the Police Bill, Fire and Rescue Service Bill, Antigua and Barbuda Forensic Services Bill, Firearms Amendment Bill, Magistrate’s Code of Procedure Amendment Bill and Mental Health Care Bill, 2026.

Further details of the proposed legislation are expected to be released before Parliament meets at 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 18.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Parliament to Consider Tougher Sentences for Serious Firearm Offences.