Senate Passes Bus Bill, Private Operators Cry Foul  

Private bus operators asked for a seat at the table, but the Senate moved ahead without them. Lawmakers passed the controversial Public Transportation Investment Bill on Wednesday, approving government investment, asset transfers and sweeping tax breaks for the National Bus Company. The vote came after senators rejected the Belize Bus Association’s last-minute request for a closed meeting, equal concessions and an independent audit. Here is how the debate reached a decisive division vote.

 

Anthony Sylvestre, Leader of Government Business

“Madam President, I rise to report that the Committee of the Whole Senate has considered the Public Transportation Investment Bill 2026 and passed it with amendments. I therefore now move that the bill be read a third time.”

 

Carolyn Trench-Sandiford. Senate President 

“Honorable Members, the question is that the bill for an act to approve, ratify, and confirm the government’s investment in the National Bus Company Limited, including by way of transfer and vesting of certain public transport assets in the company, and to provide for certain exemptions from taxes and duties proposed to be granted to the National Bus Company Limited, be read a third time. All those in favor, kindly say aye. Those against, kindly say no.”

 

Glenfield Dennison, Union Senator

“Madam President, I wish to request a division on this bill.”

 

The bill passed nine to four, but the Belize Bus Association says special benefits for one state-backed company threaten private operators and is now exploring legal action while demanding representation on the Transport Board.

 

Attention readers: This online newscast is a direct transcript of our evening television broadcast. When speakers use Kriol, we have carefully rendered their words using a standard spelling system.

 

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