Chamber of Deputies shelves tax reform bill
The Chamber of Deputies agreed to withdraw the controversial tax reform bill at the request of President Luis Abinader. The decision follows widespread public opposition to the proposed legislation.
The government’s spokesperson, Homero Figueroa, has suggested that the general public may not have fully appreciated the positive aspects of the proposed tax reform. However, the widespread opposition ultimately led the administration to reconsider its position. Figueroa explained on the El Sol de la Mañana morning talk show that the surveys carried out by the Presidency showed overwhelming rejection. He said the government understood if the debates would have been extended this would impact living in the country. He said the focus in the country would have become “monothematic” and thus the decision to pull the bill.
In an official communication delivered by the government’s legal counsel Antoliano Peralta on Monday, 21 October 2024, President Abinader formally requested that the Fiscal Modernization Bill submitted on 8 October 2024 be removed from the legislative agenda. Chamber President Alfredo Pacheco promptly ordered the reading of this communication at the beginning of the session on 22 October 2024 and the bill was pulled.
The decision to shelve the bill comes after a public hearing on 17 October, during which over 100 individuals and businesses expressed their opposition to the proposed tax increases. Despite recognizing the need for tax reform, many citizens and businesses voiced concerns about the specific measures outlined in the bill.
Chamber of Deputies president Pacheco acknowledged the significant public participation in the hearing, emphasizing the importance of listening to the concerns of the Dominican people. He also expressed hope that future administrations would prioritize inclusive decision-making processes when considering similar legislation.
Pacheco said the Chamber of Deputies would compile the proposals deposited by sectors with alternatives to the government tax proposals.
Source: DR1, Hoy
Oct 23, 2024
Category: DR News |