Parliamentary Debate on Regulatory Systems Amendment Bills

In a recent parliamentary session held on February 13-14, lawmakers engaged in a debate over three significant amendment bills: the "Regulatory Systems (Occupational Regulation) Amendment Bill", the "Regulatory Systems (Tribunals) Amendment Bill", and the "Regulatory Systems (Courts) Amendment Bill". These discussions marked the first reading of these proposed legislative changes.

Addressing Business Challenges

Rima Nakhle from the National Party highlighted how excessive regulations impose burdens on businesses, stifling growth and service delivery. She emphasized that community conversations often reveal these challenges. The amendments aim to enhance regulatory effectiveness and efficiency, facilitating business expansion. This discussion took place during an ongoing session interrupted previously.

Improving Access to Justice

Casey Costello, representing the Minister of Customs, endorsed the bills for their potential to improve court timeliness and access to justice. She praised the amendments for simplifying tribunal appointment processes and resolving inconsistencies. Costello noted that some measures introduced during COVID-19 could be made permanent.

Cultural Education Concerns

Takutai Tarsh Kemp of Te Pāti Māori expressed strong opposition, arguing that the bills undermine "Te Tiriti o Waitangi" by removing sanctions for failing to complete professional development courses related to New Zealand's foundational treaty. She highlighted a 2023 Horizon Research poll indicating only 13 percent of New Zealanders have read the Māori text of "Te Tiriti O Waitangi".

Streamlining Judicial Processes

Tom Rutherford from the National Party supported the bills for their role in streamlining judicial processes, enhancing tribunal access, and strengthening occupational regulations against money laundering and terrorism financing. He commended these efforts as part of a broader initiative to improve regulatory systems.

Fairness and Efficiency in Legal Systems

Helen White of Labour discussed how these amendments aim to simplify family law procedures by empowering family associates with decision-making capabilities, thereby reducing delays. She highlighted improvements in coroner processes for closing cases without unnecessary detail.

Regulatory Simplification and Compliance

Miles Anderson of the National Party supported the bills for their potential to streamline regulatory systems, remove redundant clauses, and facilitate easier compliance by professionals.

Clarifying Judicial Roles

Dr Tracey McLellan from Labour focused on reducing administrative errors through clear role definitions within judicial offices. She highlighted various specific amendments aimed at improving procedural consistency.

Efficient Governance and Resource Utilization

Carl Bates, also representing the National Party, emphasized the importance of efficient governance. He suggested that these bills contribute to better resource utilization and improve access to justice for all New Zealanders.

Voting Outcomes

The debate concluded with votes on each bill:

• The "Regulatory Systems (Occupational Regulation) Amendment Bill" passed with 102 ayes, including support from major parties like National (49), Labour (34), ACT New Zealand (11), and New Zealand First (8). It faced opposition primarily from the Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand (15) and Te Pāti Māori (6).
• Both the "Regulatory Systems (Tribunals) Amendment Bill" and the "Regulatory Systems (Courts) Amendment Bill" received majority votes in favor and were referred to the Justice Committee for further consideration.

These debates reflect a broader legislative effort aimed at modernizing New Zealand's regulatory framework, balancing efficiency with fairness while navigating complex cultural and constitutional considerations.