Last updated:
Friday, 16 December 2022
Introduction
1 This circular sets out the process for developing the Statutes Amendment Bill in 2023.
Process for the Bill
This circular sets out the seven key steps involved in the preparation of Statutes Amendment Bills, which range from the identification of proposals through to cross-party consultation and drafting.
Action: Agencies are now required to submit their amendments to the Ministry of Justice for vetting before consultation with relevant Ministers. See paragraphs 10 to 12 for more information.
Important dates
- Departments are to submit potential items in the Bill to the Ministry of Justice for initial vetting of their suitability by 10 February 2023 (see paragraphs 10 to 12 for steps to be followed).
- Once vetted by the Ministry of Justice and approved by the portfolio Minister, departments are to resubmit potential items for inclusion in the Bill to the Ministry of Justice by 21 April 2023 (see paragraphs 13 to 17 for the steps to be followed).
- Departments are to send drafting instructions to the Parliamentary Counsel Office by 26 May 2023 (see paragraph 21).
