The Bahraini government has expressed reservations over a bill proposed by the House of Representatives aimed at unifying all forms of direct support for low-income families under a single law. The bill introduces new allowances while proposing the removal of subsidies from certain sectors. The government has urged the House to reconsider the bill. The proposed law aims to allocate annual government support in various areas, including “cost of living allowance, retirement allowance, meat and poultry allowance, flour allowance, housing allowance, electricity and water support, and fuel subsidies.”
In a memorandum to the House of Representatives, the government stated that it is continuously reviewing and studying support programmes to ensure the efficient delivery of support to eligible recipients. The government affirmed that the goal of the proposed law is already being achieved. Moreover, the government emphasized its commitment to enhancing the efficiency and fairness of government support, ensuring it reaches the most deserving individuals. The government has made significant efforts in establishing a comprehensive social protection system for Bahraini citizens, particularly for the most vulnerable groups, through various support programmes.
The government further explained that it has reviewed social support programmes to guarantee their reach to eligible citizens. This included unifying the disbursement dates for various cash support programmes, maximizing the benefits for citizens by receiving all support payments simultaneously. However, the government has reservations about the proposed law, stating that its objectives are already being met. It also pointed out that the bill would increase the budget deficit and disrupt the Financial Balance Programme agreed upon by the legislative and executive branches.
The government stressed that the proposed law would necessitate a budget amendment as it impacts government expenditures. “This would require the government to allocate additional funds to cover the increased allowances and provisions outlined in the bill, which are currently not budgeted. This necessitates agreement with the government according to Article 109 (b) of the Constitution and Article 25 of Decree-Law No. (39) of 2002 concerning the General Budget,” the Government stated. The government urged for a thorough reconsideration of the bill to ensure that it does not have a negative impact on the country’s financial stability.
Overall, the Bahraini government’s reservations over the House of Representatives’ proposed bill highlight the need for careful consideration when it comes to introducing new legislation related to government support for low-income families. The government’s commitment to enhancing the efficiency and fairness of support programs is evident, and it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to ensure that any new laws do not disrupt the country’s financial stability. By continuing to review and study support programs, the government can ensure that the most vulnerable groups in Bahrain receive the assistance they need. It is essential for the House of Representatives and the government to collaborate and find a solution that addresses the needs of low-income families while also maintaining fiscal responsibility.
