By Onomiguren Agbamu
A bill to repeal and re-enact the Delta State HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B and C Anti-Discrimination, Prevention and Protection Law has scaled second reading on the floor of the Delta State House of Assembly.
The bill was considered during Tuesday’s plenary presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowvowo. At the same sitting, the House also received the report of the Committee on Trade and Investment on the Delta State Gaming Board Bill.
Leading the debate, the Leader of the House and sponsor of the bill, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, said the proposed legislation, which comprises 39 clauses and 9 parts, is aimed at repealing the existing law and expanding its scope.
He explained that the bill, when passed, will prohibit discrimination and strengthen prevention and protection measures for persons living with HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B and C, while also promoting public sensitisation to curb the spread of the diseases.
Hon. Nwaobi added that the bill will ensure safe and disease-free blood transfusion practices across the state, thereby improving public health outcomes.
Other lawmakers who contributed to the debate described the bill as timely and significant, noting that it would go a long way in safeguarding the health and well-being of Deltans. The bill was subsequently referred to the House Committee on Health for further legislative scrutiny.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the House Committee on Trade and Investment, Hon. Collins Egbetamah, presented the committee’s report on the Delta State Gaming Board Bill, noting that necessary amendments were made after consultations with relevant stakeholders.
He said the bill seeks to repeal existing laws on lotteries, gaming, and pool betting, and to establish a unified legal framework through the creation of the Delta State Lottery and Gaming Board. The proposed law is expected to regulate and control gaming activities across the state, while addressing challenges arising from multiple existing laws.
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