Senate approves 3 draft laws, refers two back for further review

AMMAN — The Senate approved three draft laws in its Tuesday session, all referred from the Lower House without amendments.

Two bills, the general statistics law and the agricultural risk mitigation fund law, were sent back to their respective committees for further review and study,  the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

The Senate also approved the amended Jordanian National Building Law, as proposed by the Lower House. The amendments include a recommendation to add a representative from the Public Security Directorate to the Technical Committee for the National Building Code. The amendment aims to enhance the effectiveness of the National Building Council and its Technical Committee, ensuring safer and more efficient building practices.

The Senate also passed amendments to the Law on the Regulation of the Surveying Profession and Real Estate Agencies. The amended law sets clear guidelines for surveying practices, real estate valuation, and office regulations. 

It also outlines classification criteria, licensing fees, and penalties for violations. Individuals found practising without a license face fines ranging from JD1,000 to JD1,500, while those in violation of other provisions could be fined between JD500 and JD1,500. Repeat offenders risk double fines.

The Senate approved amendments to the Law on Residence and Foreigners, introducing stricter penalties for foreigners who overstay their residence permits. 

The revised law imposes a fine of JD45 per month (JD3 per day) for individuals who fail to obtain a temporary residence permit, overstay their permitted stay, or neglect to renew their permits within one month of expiration.