Dominican Senate approves bill declaring La Romana an ecotourism province

La Romana.- The Dominican Senate approved on second reading a bill declaring La Romana an ecotourism province, with 21 votes in favor. The proposal includes the creation of a provincial regulatory council, RD$50 million in annual funding for four years, and tax incentives for qualifying ecotourism projects.

The vote took place during the Senate’s first-ever session in La Romana, held as part of celebrations marking the 82nd anniversary of the province’s creation.

Sponsored by La Romana Senator Edward Espíritu Santo, the bill will now be sent to the Chamber of Deputies for consideration.

Ecotourism development plan

The proposal seeks to diversify La Romana’s economy by promoting tourism models that combine economic growth, social development, cultural preservation and environmental protection.

It would establish the Ecotourism Development Council of La Romana to guide, promote and regulate activities related to the sector. The council would include representatives from the Ministries of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources, and Culture, along with the provincial governor, a Chamber of Commerce representative, a mayor, an environmental organization representative and an executive director.

The council would receive RD$50 million annually from the national budget for four years, for a potential total of RD$200 million. It could also accept private donations and contributions, provided they do not compromise its institutional integrity.

The proposal gives the council authority over the allocation of these resources for ecotourism development.

Tax incentives for ecotourism projects

The bill also proposes tax incentives for companies developing ecotourism projects in La Romana, referencing the benefits established under Law 158-01 on Tourism Development Promotion.

However, the legislation does not specify which exemptions under that law would apply to projects developed under the proposed ecotourism designation.