Making of laws

A national ordinance (law) can have considerable repercussions for citizens. For example, behavior can be made punishable, taxes can be raised or the electoral procedure can be modified. Since these are sensitive issues, there is a comprehensive roadmap that must be satisfied before a draft national ordinance (bill) can ultimately become a national ordinance (law).

Making laws (national ordinances)
  • At the request of a minister, a draft national ordinance (bill) is drawn up by government officials;
  • The Minister proposes to the Council of Ministers (CM) the submittal of a draft national ordinance.
  • If the Council of Ministers (CM) concurs herewith, the draft national ordinance is forwarded  to the Advisory Council (AC)  for advice.
  • The Advisory Council (AC) comments on the draft national ordinance;
  • The Minister may argue his/her case in a further report and adjust the proposal if necessary. The Minister sends the draft national ordinance to the Parliament.
  • The draft national ordinance is examined by a parliamentary committee. The members provide their comments in writing, after which the bill may be amended by the Minister;
  • Parliament discusses the draft ordinance before a public hearing. The members of parliament give an assessment and the Minister defends the proposal;
  • At the end of the debate, votes are cast on the proposed changes, elements of the draft and the final draft ordinance. 
  • Governor signs the new national ordinance;
  • Besides the Governor, the National Ordinance is countersigned by a minister (the countersignature). However, the minister, not the Governor, is responsible for the new ordinance. 
  • The Minister of Justice (MinJus) ensures that the law is published in the National Gazette of Aruba, so that everyone is aware of it;
  • In the national ordinance is stipulated when the law will enter into force. The coming into effect of the law can also be arranged by a separate act or separate regulation.

As regards draft national ordinances (initiative proposals) submitted by Parliament members, the procedure is practically the same as is the case with government proposals.