Minister Jay Ebanks Strengthens Cayman’s Licensing Law with Parliament passing the Traffic (Amendment & Validation) Bill, 2026

Parliament today passed the Traffic (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2026, legislation brought forward by the Hon. Johany “Jay” Ebanks, Minister of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure to strengthen legal clarity within the Traffic Act and ensure the continued integrity of the Cayman Islands’ vehicle licensing framework.

The amendments confirm certain administrative actions previously taken by the Director of Licensing and clarify statutory definitions within the law, ensuring consistency in how vehicle licensing and registration services are administered across the Cayman Islands.

Minister for Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure Hon. Johany “Jay” Ebanks, JP, MP said the legislation reflects Government’s commitment to responsible governance and clear, workable laws.

“This legislation ensures the law is clear, fair, and practical,” Minister Ebanks said.

“Where actions were taken in good faith, we are confirming them properly under the law. That protects the integrity of our licensing system and ensures the process remains consistent and transparent for the public.”

The legislation addresses two key matters within the Traffic Act.

• First, it clarifies the legal definition of a pedal cycle by removing references to speed. This provides a clearer distinction between pedal cycles and motorised vehicles, supporting consistent classification and enforcement.
• Second, the Bill validates fees previously charged and collected by the Director of Licensing for single registration plates and single trade plates for motorcycles and trailers. These fees were imposed as part of normal administrative operations, and the legislation confirms their legal validity.

The validation provisions also ensure that existing court decisions remain unaffected.

Clear legislative frameworks also support the wider objectives of the National Road Safety Strategy (2023–2038), which aims to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries across the Cayman Islands through improved enforcement, regulation, and public education.

Eric Bush, Chief Officer for the Ministry of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure and Chairman of the National Road Safety Committee, said clear laws support effective administration.

“Clear legislation supports consistent enforcement,” Mr. Eric Bush said. “When administrative actions are validated and the law is precise, the entire system operates with greater certainty and public confidence.”

The Traffic (Amendment and Validation) Act, 2026 will come into force on a date to be appointed by Cabinet. The full legislation is available at: 
https://gov.ky/w/traffic-amendment-and-validation-bill-2026-lg7-s11