Agenda Profile: Lauri Laats
Third Reading of the Bill Amending the Land Tax Act (437 SE)
2024-06-19
15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, extra plenary sitting
Political Position
The land tax increase is facing strong opposition: the Center Party, which is part of the parliamentary group, refuses to support the bill and is calling on others to vote against it. They argue that the tax hike will harm the local environment and regional policy, while increasing the financial burden on residents, particularly the elderly and large families. This position is fundamentally policy-based, characterizing the proposed change in tax policy as an unnecessary and damaging move, and instead suggests a digital tax as an alternative way to boost revenue from foreign companies.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The representative demonstrates knowledge regarding regional policy, the financing of local municipalities, and the impact of demographic changes, referencing the closure of schools and libraries and the resulting decline in the quality of life. They provide a specific example: taxing large landowners in Pirita or Nõmme could yield approximately 4,000 euros annually, which serves to illustrate the potential impact. The core arguments are centered on issues of regional policy and the municipal revenue base.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speech is emotionally charged and critical, yet it remains within the bounds of an argument-driven tonality. Figurative descriptions are employed (the decline of the living environment, the burden on many families), alongside direct statements and rhetorical questions, all aimed at lively engagement. It adopts a strong oppositional stance and admonishes colleagues to think big and adhere to their core values.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Specific references mentioned outside of the nine performances or affiliations are absent; the text originates from the third reading of the plenary session held on June 19, 2024. It notes the connections between previous readings and the discussion of the draft bill, referencing Anastassia Kovalenko-Kõlvart and stating that the bill cannot be supported.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The core arguments state that the land tax increase is completely unacceptable, and there is a call to vote against it. The criticism is intense and directly aimed at the coalition, focusing on the three-party alliance (Eesti 200, the Reform Party, and the Social Democrats). It is stressed that this taxation burdens local municipalities and makes a mockery of the populace. No compromise has been accepted, and the sustained critical stance remains clearly articulated.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker confirms readiness to cooperate with specific colleagues (e.g., through Aivar Koda) while simultaneously stressing opposition to the draft bill and urging other colleagues to vote against it. This demonstrates an understanding of collegial bonds, but the primary focus remains opposition and maintaining unity in defiance of the coalition.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on local municipalities and regional development: it draws attention to the decline in the quality of the living environment, population out-migration, and the risks associated with large-scale taxation, citing the examples of Pirita and Nõmme. It concentrates on the regional revenue base and the financing challenges faced by local governments.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Regarding economic policy, there is opposition to further significant tax increases that would be borne by local residents. The preference is to avoid raising tax rates, instead proposing a digital tax as an alternative means of collecting revenue from foreign companies. It is highlighted that increased burdens reduce the revenue base for local governments and could lead to negative social and economic impacts.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It emphasizes the social consequences: the increased burden on parents, the elderly, and large families, as well as the decline in the quality of the living environment. The situation is described as humiliating, and the need to keep schools, kindergartens, and community centers open is stressed in order to prevent population outflow and social damage.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary focus is the third reading of Draft Act 437 SE and opposing its adoption. The representative stresses that the Centre Party does not support the bill and aims to urge the coalition and other members of parliament to vote against it. An alternative (a digital tax) is offered, and the difficulties in funding local governments and the magnitude of the regional impact are highlighted.
1 Speeches Analyzed