GOVERNMENT MODERNISES LITTER LAW WITH PASSAGE OF LITTER (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2026

The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability has strengthened the legal framework used to address littering and illegal dumping with the passage of the Litter (Amendment) Bill, 2026 during the recent sitting of Parliament.

The amendments modernize existing legislation by introducing stronger enforcement measures and clearer powers to address litter offences, supporting cleaner neighborhoods' and helping protect the Cayman Islands' natural environment. 

The Minister for Health, Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, also highlighted the important work of the staff of the Department of Environmental Health and expressed her appreciation for their continued service.

"On behalf of the people of the Cayman Islands, I want to recognize the dedication of the Department of Environmental Health. Their work plays a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness of our communities and protecting our environments," she said.  

The Minister noted that the amendments also reflect the values traditionally associated with Caymanian culture and community pride.

"These changes reinforce in law, the same standard of civic pride that earlier generations of Caymanians were known for, ensuring that Cayman Islands continues to maintain the clean and green standard that we value so highly."

Key changes introduced through the amendments include: 

 - Increasing penalties for littering and related offences to strengthen deterrence.
 - Empowering Police Constables and Environmental Health Officers to issue fines for litter offences.
 - Enabling Cabinet to introduce regulations establishing an administrative penalty system for certain offences.
 - Strengthening provisions that allow authorities to address derelict vehicles as a form of litter, including powers to require their removal.

The Bill was debated in Parliament and further refined during the Committee stage, where amendments were introduced following feedback from Opposition members and the public. Minister Ebanks-Wilks said the process helped strengthen the final legislation and welcomed the unanimous supported the Bill received.

"The feedback received during public consultation and the parliamentary process helped improve the Bill and ensure the final legislation reflects practical considerations for enforcement and community standards. The collaboration between the Government and the Opposition demonstrates how important these legislative changes are for the entire Cayman Islands."

Acting Chief Officer in the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability, Exie Tomlinson-Panton, also recognized the work of the Ministry team and public officers who supported the development of the amendments.

"I would like to recognize the dedication of the Ministry team and the many public officers who contributed their expertise throughout this process. Their work helped ensure these legislative improvements were carefully developed and brought forward in a way that will benefit the Cayman Islands."

The Ministry will work with relevant departments and agencies to support the implementation of the amendments. Copies of the Act will be made available on the Cayman Islands legislation website following assent.