PHILIPSBURG:--- MP Darryl York returned to the floor during Monday’s debate on the draft 2027 budget with three further questions: how Sint Maarten will handle discarded lithium batteries, what rules apply to electric bicycles and scooters on public roads, and how much it will cost to bring public schools into proper repair.
York asked Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Patrice Gumbs Jr. for a plan to collect and dispose of lithium batteries as electric vehicles and smaller battery-powered devices become more common. He also sought clarity on whether the batteries could be exported for disposal and what restrictions might apply. York raised concerns about treaty obligations, but the exchange did not establish the territory’s legal position on that point.
Turning to Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling, York asked how electric bicycles, scooters and similar devices are classified under existing rules. He wanted to know where they may be used, how accidents involving them would be handled, and whether the government plans measures addressing road safety and taxation. His questions reflected concern about such devices traveling on main roads without clear guidance for riders and other road users.
York’s final questions went to Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Melissa Gumbs. He requested the total cost of repairs and maintenance identified at public schools, the size of any funding shortfall, and the amount owed on outstanding maintenance invoices. Those figures would show how much of the school maintenance burden the 2027 budget addresses and how much remains to be funded.
York supplied no cost estimates during this brief intervention. The chair adjourned the meeting for a supper break before ministers answered the additional questions.
