PP Proposes Comprehensive Family Support Law with Increased Tax Deductions and Free Preschool Education
Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the leader of the Popular Party (PP), announced a series of ambitious proposals aimed at enhancing family support in Spain during a recent speech in Barcelona. Central to these proposals is a significant increase in tax deductions for children, raising the total to €1,800, and a groundbreaking initiative to make preschool education free across the nation. These measures form part of the Family Reconciliation Law that Feijóo's party intends to introduce in the coming days.
In his address, Feijóo highlighted the pressing need for these changes, noting that the tax deductions for children have remained stagnant for the past 25 years. Additionally, he called for legal protections that would provide a 45 percent discount on childcare expenses for families navigating shared custody arrangements following divorce.
"This Family Reconciliation Law will set a new standard in Spain, reflecting the essential commitments we must make to support families and promote reconciliation," he stated. He emphasized that similar initiatives are already in effect in various autonomous communities led by the PP.
One of the salient points made by Feijóo is the priority of free preschool education in Catalonia, stating that it holds greater significance for families than the establishment of new government embassies. He suggested that public funds should be allocated to education rather than the expansion of redundant governmental structures. The proposal delineates a cost-sharing model where the state would finance 50 percent of the expense, with the remaining half funded by regional governments.
Furthermore, Feijóo proposed extending maternity and paternity leave from the current 16 weeks to 20 weeks, allowing parents the flexibility to choose when to take their leave. This reflects a broader understanding of the needs of modern families and the importance of parental involvement during the early stages of a child's life.
Notably, Alejandro Fernández, the leader of the Catalan PP, echoed these sentiments, advocating for a dedicated department focused on family policies. He criticized the current government led by President Salvador Illa for prioritizing other concerns, such as the formation of a new Department of Linguistic Policy, over family-related issues. "Family policies deserve their own department, and it is time the government recognizes the importance of these matters," Fernández asserted.
As Feijóo and his party position themselves as champions for family rights and reconciliation, the proposed reforms could potentially reshape the landscape of family support in Spain, thereby addressing long-standing concerns and advancing the interests of families throughout the country.
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