Senate approves teleworking legislation and tax exemptions

Baní, DR.- During an ordinary session held in Baní to commemorate the 260th anniversary of the city’s founding, the Senate of the Republic approved a bill in second reading that introduces teleworking as a viable work modality in the Dominican Republic.

Convening at the auditorium of the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD) in Baní, the Plenary Meeting convened following a resolution presented by Senatorial Representative Milcíades Franjul.

The resolution underscores the significance of commemorating Baní’s 260 years of existence, highlighting its pivotal role in National Independence, the Restoration of the Republic, and its rich cultural heritage, biodiversity, natural resources, social cohesion, political acumen, and significant contributions to the economy.

Before the session commenced, Senate President Ricardo de los Santos addressed the attendees, emphasizing the Senate’s commitment to fostering closer ties with communities and ensuring greater accessibility to the Senate for the people.

“It is a great honor and immense satisfaction to be here, commemorating the 260th anniversary of the Capital of Mango, in the land of Generalissimo Máximo Gómez; the land of national journalism icon Don Rafael Herrera and many other illustrious citizens who bring pride to this province and the entire Dominican nation,” he remarked.

De los Santos also underscored Baní’s economic prosperity and its trajectory toward positive change.

With the participation of 20 senators, Milcíades Franjul, representing the Peravia province, addressed the audience, highlighting the development initiatives undertaken by President Luis Abinader’s administration, which he had advocated for during his tenure as senator of the province.

Telecommuting: The Senate Plenary approved a bill proposing amendments to Law No. 16-92, the Labor Code, to incorporate teleworking as a formal work arrangement. The bill, proposed by Senators Santiago Zorrilla and Aris Yván Lorenzo, aims to integrate sectors of the digital economy and utilize technological communication tools to spur job creation, enhance productivity and competitiveness, and safeguard workers’ rights.

In addition to the teleworking legislation, the session in Baní saw the approval of a bill exempting all import taxes on gifts brought into the country by residents abroad during Christmas, New Year, and summer holidays each year. This initiative, presented by Senator Franklin Rodríguez, aims to waive import taxes on gifts brought by residents abroad to their family and friends.

Furthermore, a bill modifying paragraph IV of article 2 of Law 147-00 on Tax Reform, concerning import prohibitions on automobiles and other vehicles, was approved in second reading. This bill, authored by Senator Franklin Rodríguez, aims to revise import regulations related to vehicles.