The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has strengthened consumer protections and financial inclusion with the passage of the Banking (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the National Assembly on Thursday, June 11th.
Introduced by Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, the legislation amends 71 provisions of the Banking Act and aligns with regional reforms across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union aimed at creating a more transparent, accessible and consumer-focused banking sector.
The amendments require financial institutions to provide clearer information on fees, interest rates, risks and repayment obligations, while enhancing safeguards against unfair contract terms, fraud and cyber-related threats. The Bill also improves complaint-handling procedures, dispute resolution mechanisms and protections for customer data.
A key focus of the legislation is financial inclusion, ensuring greater access to banking services for elderly persons, individuals with disabilities, low-income earners and those with limited digital skills.
The reforms reinforce the Government’s commitment to a banking system that is safe, transparent and responsive to the needs of all citizens.
Meantime – Saint Kitts and Nevis has moved to modernize its justice system with the introduction of the Evidence (Amendment) Bill, 2026, updating laws governing DNA evidence while strengthening protections for privacy, fairness and due process.
Presenting the Bill, Attorney General Garth Wilkin said the legislation provides a clearer framework for the collection, use and evaluation of DNA evidence, including modern forensic methods. The amendments limit compelled DNA sampling to serious offences and require judicial oversight, expert evidence and disclosure safeguards.
