President Assents TWO (2) New Public Safety Laws As Government Delivers On Election Campaign Promises

Two (2) significant pieces of legislation — one addressing home invasions and the other, noise pollution — aimed at strengthening public safety and improving the quality of life in Trinidad and Tobago, have been assented by President Christine Carla Kangaloo, O.R.T.T.  

In a statement issued on her X account this morning (Wednesday 17th December, 2025), Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, said, “My Government has delivered on two (2) major commitments made to the people during the 2025 General Election campaign, with the President, Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, assenting to two (2) significant pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening public safety and improving quality of life. These laws reflect the clear and decisive mandate given to me by the people of Trinidad and Tobago. Throughout the campaign, I placed strong emphasis on protecting families, restoring public order, and responding to long-standing concerns raised by communities across the country.”

Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Act, 2025 (Act No. 11 of 2025)

According to the Prime Minister, “This landmark legislation establishes the offence of home invasion and affirms the right of law-abiding citizens to defend themselves, their families, and their property within their dwelling house. The Act removes any duty to retreat when acting in self-defence or defence of property and provides that a person may use reasonable defensive force, including deadly force where necessary, to protect life and property.”

She added, “This issue was a central pillar of the election campaign in response to widespread public concern over violent home invasions, the vulnerability of ordinary families, and the failure of the former PNM Administration to act. The electorate responded with a strong and resounding mandate, signaling their expectation that the law must stand firmly on the side of innocent citizens and victims of crime. This Act gives effect to that mandate and provides reassurance to families that their homes remain their final place of safety.”

Summary Offences (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. 13 of 2025)

According to the Prime Minister, “This Act amends the Summary Offences Act to strengthen measures addressing noise pollution and the indiscriminate use of fireworks — issues that have increasingly affected public health, safety, and community well-being. During the election campaign, I committed to restoring balance between celebration and responsibility, recognizing that excessive noise and unregulated fireworks cause serious distress to vulnerable members of society, including young children, the elderly, persons with medical conditions, and individuals with sensory sensitivities. I also highlighted the severe and often overlooked impact on animals, including household pets and livestock, which can suffer fear, injury, or disorientation due to loud and prolonged explosions.”

She added, “Citizens across the country consistently raised these concerns, calling for stronger enforcement and clearer rules to protect communities, while preserving lawful and responsible celebrations. The passage and assent of this legislation respond directly to those concerns by providing clearer authority for enforcement, stronger deterrents against abuse, and a framework that promotes consideration, safety, and compassion.”

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Delivering on the People’s Mandate

Mrs. Persad-Bissessar concluded her statement by saying, “The assent of these two (2) Acts represents the fulfillment of specific commitments I made to the electorate and which were endorsed through the democratic process. As my Government continues its national effort to address crime, public disorder, and community well-being, we remain committed to acting decisively, responsibly, and in alignment with the will of the people. Promises made. Promises kept.”

More on this as it becomes available.