Regulatory Standards Bill – 6 Days remaining to submit

Steve from Redwood Valley

With just 6 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the firm deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), "thoughts of the day" underscore the immediate threat and the imperative to act:

"The Regulatory Standards Bill, with its potentially sweeping consequences for our environment, the rights of Māori under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the very foundation of democratic law-making, is now at a critical precipice. With only 6 days remaining, every submission amplifies the public's voice against a bill widely considered dangerous and ill-conceived. Don't let this final window close without contributing to the defence of New Zealand's shared values and future."

Here's a concise summary of why urgent action is needed:

Treaty Breaches Confirmed: The Waitangi Tribunal has already found the Crown breached Treaty principles in the Bill's development due to a lack of meaningful consultation with Māori. The Bill's continued advancement without addressing this, and its explicit omission of Te Tiriti principles from its "good law-making" criteria, is a profound concern for anyone who values the Treaty.

"Regulatory Takings" - A Financial and Regulatory Straitjacket: This is a major point of contention. The clause that could mandate compensation if regulations "take or impair" property (including potential profits) creates a powerful disincentive for governments to enact vital regulations. Imagine the cost to taxpayers if environmental protections, public health measures, or even building standards could be challenged for compensation by those whose profits are affected. This could lead to a "chilling effect" on regulations, making it harder to protect our collective interests.

A "Regulatory Constitution" by Stealth: Legal experts warn that the Bill aims to establish a set of narrow, ideologically driven principles that would effectively act as a "regulatory constitution." This could severely limit the ability of future elected governments to make laws that reflect the evolving needs and values of New Zealanders, thereby undermining democratic flexibility and responsiveness.

Prioritising Private Over Public Good: Critics argue that the Bill's emphasis on individual liberties and property rights, particularly in the context of "economic efficiency," risks subordinating broader societal goals like environmental protection, social equity, and collective well-being.

The fact that an earlier consultation saw overwhelming opposition (88% of 23,000 submissions opposing, 11.67% undecided, 0.33% in favour) highlights the significant public concern. This select committee stage is the last direct opportunity for the public to influence the outcome of this Bill.

Time is running out. Even a brief submission stating your opposition and outlining one or two key concerns is valuable.

The simplest submission builder to lodge your submission in as little as 10 minutes can be found on here:
hapai.co.nz...
Hāpai te Hauora (Maori Public Health)

Many thanks