Representatives of several Jamaican civil society organisations and charitable foundations have publicly expressed concerns regarding the Government’s proposed Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) Act, which is expected to replace the existing legislative framework governing charities by October 2026. During a Jamaica Observer Monday Exchange, on the 28 June 2026, representatives of the Council of Voluntary Social Services (CVSS), EVE for Life, the Phillip and Christine Gore Family Foundation, and Deaf Can Coffee stated that, while they support transparency and accountability within the sector, the proposed legislation could impose additional regulatory and administrative burdens that may adversely affect the operation of non-profit organisations, particularly smaller volunteer-run entities.
Stakeholders also expressed concern that organisations expected to be regulated under the proposed legislation have not been meaningfully consulted during its development. They cautioned that increased compliance obligations may divert already limited resources away from service delivery, advocacy, and community development initiatives, potentially affecting vulnerable groups that rely on support provided by civil society organisations. The issue raises broader questions regarding stakeholder participation in legislative reform, the operational environment for civil society, and the balance between regulatory oversight and the effective functioning of non-profit organisations.