Members of Parliament have made significant strides in the harmonisation of licencing procedures in the country by approving new changes.
The MPs have passed a crucial bill that seeks to standardize and simplify licensing procedures across the various county governments.
According to the changes, all counties will adhere to similar licensing procedures. Its passage will also make it easy for traders to shift their base without facing barriers and different sanctions from county governments.
The County Licensing (Uniform Procedures) Bill, 2022 (Senate Bill No. 9 Of 2022) underwent thorough deliberation in the Committee of the Whole House, where amendments were made before its passage at the Third Reading.
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The Bill acknowledges the existing disparity in licensing procedures among the forty-seven county governments, which has negatively impacted the ease of doing business.
Its primary objective is to ensure consistency in licensing and, consequently, foster a favourable environment for private sector engagement across counties.
The Bill was moved by Aldai MP Marianne Kitany who appraised the parliament on the rationale behind proposed amendments to specific clauses.
While debating the Bill, lawmakers unanimously recognized that the current disparities in licensing procedures pose a significant barrier to business operations.
Following its passing in parliament, the Bill is now expected to be presented to the Senate.
"The Senate may choose to pass the bill with all amendments included or reject any or all amendments proposed," the statement from parliament read in part.
