Cabinet Talks COVID, Tax Collection, and Cannabis

The Government Press Office issued it briefing on the Cabinet meeting today. Areas covered included an update from at the Ministry of Health and Wellness on a ramped-up COVID-19 vaccination campaign. Cabinet was briefed on the challenges Belize and other member states in CARICOM face in advancing the CARICOM Single Market and Economy integration process and approved the appointment of personnel in various ministries to implement policies relevant to Belize regarding the C.S.M.E.   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 and 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 cannabis industry for Belize.