Lump-sum fines for labour breaches are out, with a decree-law slashing penalties in half and giving businesses more time to settle violations winning Shura Council approval yesterday. The move, already cleared by Parliament on the final day of 2024, replaces immediate BD1,000 fines with a staggered system ranging from BD100 to BD300, giving firms up to 14 days to sort out expired work permits before tougher penalties kick in. The decree-law, issued by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in August last year and now retroactively endorsed by the upper house, took effect the next day. It replaces blanket fines with a tiered system that gives employers more time to fix violations before being hit with heavier penalties. Committee rapporteur Talal Mohammed Al Manai said the overhaul was about keeping businesses running while ensuring the law is followed. “Most breaches aren’t the result of bad intentions, but rather the day-to-day mess of running a business. This decree-law makes sure companies can comply without being crushed under penalties that don’t fit the circumstances,” he said. Acting Labour Minister Yousif Khalaf defended the changes, saying the old rules were too rigid and left businesses tangled in red tape. “The government’s […]