Published - Traffic (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2026
The Ministry of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure (MPLAHI) has confirmed that the Traffic (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2026 was published in the Gazette today.
The Bill amends the Traffic Act (2023 Revision) to clarify key statutory definitions and to validate certain administrative actions taken by the Director of Licensing, ensuring legal certainty, consistency, and continuity in the application of the law.
Purpose of the Bill
The Bill has two primary objectives:
• to clarify the legal definition of a pedal cycle under the Traffic Act; and
• to validate specific fees previously charged and collected in relation to vehicle registration plates, where those fees were imposed in good faith.
Key highlights of the Bill include:
Clarification of “pedal cycle”
The Bill amends the definition of pedal cycle by removing references to speed. This provides a clearer legal distinction between pedal cycles and other motorised vehicles, supporting consistent classification and enforcement under the Traffic Act.
Validation of registration plate fees
The Bill validates fees previously charged and collected by the Director of Licensing for the provision of single registration plates and single trade plates for motorcycles and trailers. This confirms the legality of those administrative actions and removes uncertainty surrounding past collections.
Protection of court decisions
The validation provisions expressly preserve the effect of any court orders already made, ensuring that judicial decisions remain unaffected by the amendments.
Continuity of administration
By validating past actions and clarifying statutory definitions, the Bill supports the orderly and uninterrupted administration of vehicle licensing and registration services.
Road safety governance context
Legislative clarity within the Traffic Act supports the broader objectives of the National Road Safety Strategy (NRSS), which relies on clear, enforceable laws to support consistent regulation, education, and enforcement. The National Road Safety Committee (NRSC), which oversees implementation of the NRSS, continues to emphasise the importance of a sound legislative framework as a foundation for safer road use across the Cayman Islands.
Commenting on the publication of the Bill, the Minister for Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure, Hon. Johany “Jay” Ebanks, said:
“This Bill brings clarity where it is needed. It confirms actions taken in good faith, strengthens certainty in the Traffic Act, and supports the consistent administration of vehicle licensing and registration across the Cayman Islands.”
Mr Eric Bush, Chief Officer for the Ministry of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure and Chairman of the National Road Safety Committee, said: “Legislation must continue to evolve to remain effective. Clear law supports consistent enforcement. When definitions are precise and administrative processes are legally sound, the system works more effectively and road users can have confidence in how the law is applied.”
The Traffic (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2026 will come into force on a date to be appointed by Cabinet.
The full Bill is available at: https://gov.ky/w/traffic-amendment-and-validation-bill-2026-lg7-s11
The Ministry will continue to engage with stakeholders as the Bill progresses through the legislative process.
