Legislation that restricts the Customs Department from disclosing information received in the performance of its functions was among several amendments approved by MPs in the House of Assembly.

The Customs Department Amendment Act 2024 was presented by Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, in the absence of Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, at Friday’s sitting.

The legislation made provision for “permitted disclosure” of information as well as any limitations on such disclosures by the department.

It provided that information may be disclosed for the department to carry out its duties and included protections laid out in the Personal Information Protection Act, which comes fully into force next year.

MPs also voted to approve the Companies Amendment Act 2024 which amends the Companies Act 1981.

Jaché Adams, the Junior Minister of Finance, said the Bill removed the “unintended” exemption from annual corporate regulatory fees for certain classes of exempted companies.

He said it made sure that the fees applied to all entities on Bermuda’s corporate register, which is overseen by the Registrar of Companies.

Mr Adams also tabled the Corporate Entities (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act 2024 which amends the Companies Act 1981, Limited Liability Company Act 2016, Exempted Partnerships Act 1992 and Overseas Partnerships Act 1995.

He said changes to the laws were necessary to support the implementation of Bermuda’s new corporate income tax regime, which will take effect in January.

Mr Adams said the island’s income tax regime was designed to meet international standards and made sure the country remains compliant with evolving tax expectations.

MPs also approved the Bermuda Monetary Authority Amendment Bill 2024, which provides for a waiver or reduction of fees payable by entities under the umbrella of the BMA.