Speaker of Parliament Jagath Wickramaratne has endorsed the Animals (Amendment) Bill, bringing legislation that expands the legal definition of “animal” under Sri Lankan law into effect.
The amendment to the Animals Act, No. 29 of 1958, broadens the definition of “animal” in Section 38 of the principal law and brings goats, pigs and sheep within the scope of provisions under Part II of the Act.
It also clarifies definitions under Part IV to include sheep, goats, pigs and poultry.
The bill was presented to Parliament for its first reading by the minister of agriculture, livestock, lands and irrigation on July 21 and passed by Parliament on Aug. 6.
With the speaker’s certification, it has become the Animals (Amendment) Act, No. 19 of 2026.
Wickramaratne also endorsed the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (Amendment) Bill, which was passed by Parliament on Aug. 6.
The legislation updates the National Water Supply and Drainage Board Law, No. 24 of 1974, expanding the board’s powers and responsibilities relating to water supply and wastewater management.
It has been enacted as the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (Amendment) Act, No. 20 of 2026. (Newswire)