The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly recently approved five government Bills, enacting significant amendments across various sectors, including labor regulations, motor vehicle taxation, and social welfare provisions.
Key among these is the Factories (Andhra Pradesh Amendment) Bill, 2025, which permits an increase in the daily working hours for workmen. This legislation also mandates specific safeguards, such as rest periods, overtime compensation, safety measures, and welfare facilities, particularly for workers affected by extended or night-time schedules.
The AP Motor Vehicles Taxation (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduces reduced green tax rates for Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCVs). Under the new provisions, HCVs up to 12 years old will incur an annual tax of ₹1,500, while those over 12 years old will be taxed at ₹3,000 per annum, a measure intended to reduce financial obligations for vehicle owners.
Additionally, the AP Shops & Establishments (Amendment) Bill, 2025, facilitates the employment of women during nighttime hours, contingent upon the implementation of specified safety and security precautions. This aims to establish a more inclusive framework for women’s participation in establishments operating outside conventional hours. The Bill also exempts establishments employing fewer than 20 workers from most of its provisions, retaining only core requirements concerning registration, working hours, rest, safety, and worker welfare.
The Assembly also passed the AP Prevention of Begging (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the AP State Commission for Scheduled Tribes (Amendment) Bill, 2025, addressing other administrative and social matters.
Source: www.thehindu.com