Grace Period Proposed to Ease Pressure on Companies

Lawmakers are considering a new measure to give employers additional time to address compliance issues before access to labour services is suspended.

The proposal, submitted by MP Khalid Buanaq and currently under review by Parliament’s Services Committee, suggests a ten-day grace period for companies to correct breaches after receiving notice. If no action is taken within that period, suspension procedures would move forward.

In cases where verification is needed to confirm a breach, access to services would remain active until the inquiry is completed and both parties are heard. If the investigation finds the issue was due to an employer error, an additional ten days would be granted to resolve the matter.

Buanaq explained that the plan is a step-by-step approach encouraging companies to act promptly while minimizing the risk of disruption.

Supporting the Economy

The MP added that the measure would help protect businesses that employ Bahrainis, pay fees and taxes, and contribute to the economy, while ensuring compliance standards are maintained.

The Services Committee continues to study the proposal. Any implementation would require government approval.