The House of Representatives met on Friday, 27th June 2025, at 10:20 A.M. for a dynamic and productive sitting that saw the introduction, debate, and passage of several key pieces of legislation. From financial reforms and workplace safety to pension rights and diplomatic solidarity, Members tackled an ambitious agenda that reflects the Government’s continued commitment to good governance, legislative modernization, and Belize’s international partnerships.

Here’s what the public needs to know:
Reports from Select Committees
Several important Reports were laid on the Table during the sitting, signalling that these pieces of legislation had completed the committee review stage:
1. Finance and Economic Development Committee
Sessional Paper No. HR12/1/14 – Report on the Central Bank of Belize (Amendment) Bill, 2025

2. Constitution and Foreign Affairs Committee
Sessional Paper No. HR13/1/14 – on the Bail Bill, 2025
Sessional Paper No. HR14/1/14 – Law Revision and Law Reform Bill, 2025
Sessional Paper No. HR15/1/14 – National Assembly (Powers, Privileges, and Immunities) Bill, 2025
Legislation on the Move
Several new Bills were also introduced and referred to respective House Committees for further examination and report:

1. Gaming and Lotteries Control Bill, 2025 – Repeals and consolidates outdated gaming laws into a modern regulatory framework.
Referred to the Finance and Economic Development Committee

2. Occupational Safety and Health Bill, 2025 – Enhances protections for workers and establishes a national inspectorate and advisory committee.
Referred to the Public Service, Labour, Industry, and Trade Committee

3. School Teachers’ Pension Bill, 2025 – Gives effect to the 2021–2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement by clarifying how teachers’ pensions are calculated under grant-in-aid schools.
Referred to the Education, Sports, and Housing Committee

4. Broadcasting Bill, 2025 – this Bill was Deferred to a later date.
Motions
Belize Reaffirms Its Commitment to Stand with Taiwan

One of the most heartfelt moments of the day was the adoption of the Resolution to Support Democratic Taiwan and Strengthen Bilateral Bond, 2025.

– Sessional Paper No. HR16/1/14

– The resolution reaffirmed Belize’s unwavering support for Taiwan’s sovereignty, democracy, and global participation in institutions such as the United Nations, WHO, ICAO, UNFCCC, and INTERPOL.

A copy of this resolution is to be formally transmitted to President Lai Ching-Te of Taiwan and to the Office of the Prime Minister as a tangible expression of Belize’s enduring friendship and mutual respect.
Bills Debated and Passed

Four significant Bills advanced through Second Reading, were thoroughly reviewed in the Committee of the Whole House and were ultimately passed in Third Reading, marking the final stage in the legislative process in the House.

1. Central Bank of Belize (Amendment) Bill, 2025
Adds the Director General of the Financial Services Commission to the Board of the Central Bank. Passed without amendment.

2. Bail Bill, 2025
Repeals and replaces the Bail Reform Act, establishing a fairer, more effective framework within the criminal justice system. Passed without amendment.

3. Law Revision and Law Reform Bill, 2025
Establishes a permanent Law Reform Commission and modernizes Belize’s law consolidation processes. Passed without amendment.

4. National Assembly (Powers, Privileges, and Immunities) Bill, 2025
Clarifies Members’ rights and privileges, protects speech in the House, and strengthens the rules governing the parliamentary precincts.
Passed with amendments after in-depth Committee discussion

What’s Next?

Committees will now continue their work by reviewing newly introduced legislations, after which those measures will return to the House for its further debate in Second Reading thereafter Third Reading.

following the raising of matters on the adjournment by few Members, The House adjourned to a date to be fixed by the Speaker.
Stay Engaged
This sitting reflects the National Assembly’s continued work to strengthen Belize’s legislative framework and advance national priorities. Members of the public are encouraged to stay informed, follow proceedings, and access sessional papers, Bills, and Hansards via the Assembly’s official website.

Together, let’s build a more informed and engaged Belize!