Venezuela’s National Assembly has enacted the Penal Law of the Environment, which is aimed at outlining crimes against natural resources and the environment and the corresponding penalties.

It states: “This law’s regulations apply to natural persons and legal entities for crimes committed both within the territory of the Republic and in foreign countries, if damage or risks of the act are created in Venezuela.”

The Penal Law of the Environment includes principal and accessory sanctions. Principal sanctions include arrest, imprisonment, and the dissolution of legal entities such as dismantling the polluting facility or building. Meanwhile, accessory sanctions include the permanent closure of facilities, 1-year temporary closures, or permanent prohibitions of polluting activity.

The law includes 110 articles and will enter into force 90 days after it is published in the Official Gazette.

Correo del Orinoco / Press Office – Venezuelan Embassy to the U.S. / May 4, 2012