Lawmakers push to give drivers longer window for discounted fine payments

TDT | Manama

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Despite opposition in the upper chamber, a bill to extend the discount period for traffic fines returns to Parliament on Tuesday, with MPs citing financial pressures on citizens.

The proposal seeks to amend Article 56 of the Traffic Law, giving motorists who accept a settlement 30 days to pay half the minimum fine, replacing the current seven-day window. Supporters argue the longer period would ease households’ budgets, encourage more drivers to settle fines, reduce the Traffic Court’s workload, and save motorists time and legal costs.

The Shura Council rejected the bill in principle, while the government warned that extending the period could weaken deterrence, stressing that prompt settlement is essential for road safety. Under current law, drivers who settle within seven days pay half the minimum fine;

payment within 30 days requires the full minimum, and settlements before the Public Prosecution cannot be less than a quarter of the maximum fine. The Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee reviewed the Shura Council’s objection on 5 May 2025. The Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee backed the council’s legal reasoning but named MPs Jameel Mulla Hassan and Hassan Ibrahim as rapporteurs. The committee recommends Parliament insist on the longer payment window to support citizens under financial strain.