The Regulatory Standards Act passed in late 2025 prioritises economic and property rights over social and community wellbeing, equity, and environmental protection. It fails to recognise Te Tiriti o Waitangi and does not address the needs of vulnerable populations.This will negatively impact health outcomes, health equity, and environmental sustainability. RACS submitted against the proposals in the Regulatory Standards Bill. We provided evidence on public health priorities threatened by the proposal and analysis of the increased burden on an already pressured healthcare system. We expressed concerns about the elimination of alcohol harm protections undermining health equity.
RACS joined other medical colleges and healthcare organisations in writing to all members of parliament calling for the Act to be repealed.
Read submission (PDF 288.21KB).