Cabinet Brief June 30th 2021

The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John Brice�o, met in regular session on 29th June 2021.

� Cabinet received an update from health professionals at the Ministry of Health & Wellness on the current state of affairs with respect to COVID-19 including the announcement of a ramped-up vaccination campaign and recommendations for new measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

� Cabinet was apprised of the challenges Belize and other member states in CARICOM face in advancing the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) integration process. To this end, Cabinet took note of the actions necessary to overcome those challenges and approved the appointment of persons in various ministries to support the work to implement policies relevant to Belize regarding the CSME.

� Cabinet approved amendments to the Tax Administration and Procedure Act to enable the Belize Tax Services Department to better pursue tax defaulters both criminally and civilly.

� Cabinet gave its approval for the introduction of key E-Governance Legislation relating to electronic transactions, data sharing and protection, and a new Electronic Transfer of Funds Crime Bill.

� Finally, Cabinet approved the amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act that would provide for the creation of a regulated and responsible cannabis industry for Belize.