Government amendment exemptions

Some Government amendments may be eligible for an exemption from producing a Consistency Accountability Statement (CAS), a Summary of Underpinning Analysis, and a Statement of Reasons. 

Government amendments can significantly change a bill’s impacts. For that reason, agencies are usually required to develop a CAS.

Agencies do not need to prepare a CAS for a Government amendment that does not materially change the Bill.

For more information, see section 13 of the Regulatory Standards Actopen_in_new.

The Minister for Regulation has delegated to the Ministry for Regulation the power to determine whether a Government amendment is material.

If your agency considers a Government amendment to a bill is not material, you can apply for an exemption from CAS requirements using the exemption application form.open_in_new

See guidance on what we consider a material Government Amendment for the purposes of the Act.

If we determine that a Government amendment is not material, we will provide the agency wording to include in the relevant Cabinet paper and explanatory note.

Apply for an exemption: RMS@regulation.govt.nz

The guidance below explains when an exemption may apply and how to request one.

• Non statutory Guidance on materiality of Government amendments 
• Exemption application form (23 KB, Docx)

• Developing a CAS for new legislation

If you have questions about whether a Government amendment you are developing  might be eligible for an exemption from CAS requirements email:  RMS@regulation.govt.nz