Sri Lankan Parliament Receives 2025 Appropriation Bill

Colombo, Sri Lanka – January 9, 2025: Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya presented the Appropriation Bill for the 2025 financial year to Parliament today.

The bill outlines the government's proposed expenditures for the upcoming year. The second reading, commonly known as the Budget Speech, is scheduled for February 17, 2025. The subsequent debate will span seven days, from February 18 to 25, culminating in a vote on February 25 at 6:00 p.m.

Following the second reading, the Committee Stage Debate is planned for 19 days, including four Saturdays, from February 27 to March 21. The final vote on the third reading of the Appropriation Bill is set for March 21 at 6:00 p.m.

During the budget debate period, parliamentary sessions will commence with a 30-minute segment from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. dedicated to oral questions. The main budget debate will follow from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Additionally, time from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. is allocated for adjournment motions on all days except February 25 and March 21, when votes are scheduled.

The presentation of the Appropriation Bill marks a significant step in Sri Lanka's legislative process, setting the stage for detailed discussions on the nation's fiscal policies and priorities for 2025.