Bill to Abolish E-Levy, Betting Tax Likely to Be Presented in Parliament on Today – Finance Minister

The government is set to introduce a bill in Parliament to abolish several taxes, including the Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy), COVID-19 Levy, and the 10% tax on lottery winnings (betting tax).

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced that these bills are expected to be laid before Parliament on Wednesday, March 13.

“Tomorrow morning, I will be heading to Parliament to submit the bills, and I expect Parliament to process them under a certificate of urgency,” Dr. Forson stated on *JoyNews PM Express* on Tuesday, March 11.

This move follows his earlier announcement during the presentation of the government’s first budget statement on March 11. In addition to scrapping the E-Levy and betting tax, the government also plans to eliminate the Emissions Tax and other levies.

Dr. Forson expressed confidence in the swift passage of the bills, citing their simplicity.

“Each of these tax repeals will be addressed in a single clause, making the process straightforward. Repealing the betting tax, E-Levy, and other levies should be seamless,” he explained.

He further emphasized that the bills qualify to be presented under a certificate of urgency, allowing for an expedited legislative process.

“As revenue bills, the Constitution permits their introduction under a certificate of urgency,” he noted.

Dr. Forson assured that once Parliament approves the bills, President John Dramani Mahama will sign them into law without delay.

“I will fulfill my duty by submitting the bills to Parliament. Given their urgency, I am optimistic that Parliament will pass them promptly,” he added.

Regarding parliamentary support, Dr. Forson reaffirmed that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority caucus is fully committed to the initiative.

“We have the full backing of the NDC Majority caucus—100% support,” he stated.