Coalition to Propose Changes in Extended Budget Law: Details and Reactions
The coalition, led by Assen Vassilev, who also served as the former finance minister, has announced its intent to propose amendments to the extended budget law, which was recently passed by the National Assembly in its first reading. This special bill, introduced by the caretaker government, aims to extend the validity of the 2024 budget until a new one is adopted in 2025.
Vassilev was appointed as the chairman of the committee for the law’s first meeting, which took place on Tuesday. He asserted his moral right to lead the committee, as its chairmanship was traditionally decided by the Chairman of the Parliament.
Dismissing concerns, Vassilev firmly stated that there is no significant gap in the budget. He went on to reveal the coalition’s plans for the extended law, including provisions for:
- Healthcare and Education: Increased funding for healthcare, education, and science, as well as improved nutrition for children in kindergartens and schools.
- In Vitro Procedures: Coverage for in vitro procedures and screening for diseases affecting children’s and women’s reproductive health.
- National Culture Fund: A provision to ensure the National Culture Fund maintains its budget until the new budget is adopted.
Vassilev also mentioned that the extended law should securities agreements made in the previous year until the new budget is in place. Additionally, it will address the compensation system for non-residential electricity consumers and regulate how energy prices are collected to prevent uncontrolled increases.
Reacting to trade union warnings of protests due to increasing electricity prices, Vassilev assured that the extended law will prevent such price hikes and their subsequent impact on the overall cost of living.
Regarding trade unions’ demands, particularly salary increases, Vassilev noted that these would be resolved with the implementation of the 2025 Budget.
Criticizing political parties that voted against discussing the state budget in the Budget and Finance Committee, Vassilev argued that this action posed a threat to the country’s financial stability.
Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Nikolai Denkov dismissed rumors suggesting that Bulgaria was heading towards a super deficit. The PPDB party, which Vassilev is part of, plans to amend the extended law and prepare the 2025 Budget to reflect clear policies and allocate funds responsibly. Denkov also mentioned that the party would meet with employers and trade unions to discuss rising electricity prices following the New Year.
Keywords used for SEO purposes: budget law, budget extension, parliamentary committee, Assen Vassilev, coalition proposals, healthcare funding, education spending, electricity prices, trade unions, Nikolai Denkov, PPDB party.
