Regulatory Standards Bill

The Regulatory Standards Bill is a proposed law that would change the way future laws are made in Aotearoa. It talks about making laws that are clear, fair, and efficient. But in reality, it protects profit and property — not people.

The Bill introduces a set of “Principles of Responsible Regulation”, a checklist that all new laws would need to follow. These include:

Rule of Law – Laws should be fair, clear, and apply to everyone in the same way.

Liberties – Laws should only limit people’s freedom if they protect someone else’s rights.

Taking of Property – Property shouldn’t be taken without good reason, fair payment, and the cost covered by those who benefit.

Taxes, Fees and Levies – Public charges must be fair, approved by Parliament, and only cover what is needed.

Role of Courts – Courts must stay independent and have the final say on what laws mean.

Good Law-Making – Governments should consult properly, consider the problem carefully, and ensure the benefits outweigh the costs.

This Bill may seem harmless at first, even reasonable, but notice how it completely ignores Te Tiriti o Waitangi, fails to uphold collective wellbeing, and makes no commitment to equity. This Bill would make it harder to pass laws that protect Māori rights, public health, workers, and the environment.

It’s part of a wider political pattern that undermines democratic processes and weakens protections for the people who need them most.

Make a submission today, because change starts with us.