By Plenary Sessions: Lauri Laats

The legislative focus is on tax policy reforms: the Centre Party's bill to lower VAT on food (potentially to 5%) and changes in consumption taxes. Additionally, ideas are being floated regarding the possibility of a temporary solidarity bank tax and the taxation of digital advertising, in order to finance youth extracurricular activities. He emphasizes the discussion of the bills in the Finance Committee and is either the initiator or a strong supporter of the bill.

Not enough data

As a legislative priority, the focus is on energy legislation, streamlining the permit process, and providing a clear direction. It emphasizes the need for cooperation and a transparent plan, adding that the current draft bill does not have support. It also highlights the importance of resolving deficiencies in grid connection and bureaucratic matters before any further acceleration can take place.

Priorities include the reform of the social benefits system, a review of the taxation of subsistence benefits and pension schemes, and organizing the financing for the renovation of the housing stock (KredEx resources, Loans, utilization of European funding). Questions are being presented, and the government and members of the Riigikogu (Parliament) are being called upon to review decisions and, where necessary, to undertake legislative amendments. The exact amounts and timeline (2024–2025) of the funding are being raised, along with a check on the feasibility of the plans.

The main focus is the draft law concerning the freezing and potential confiscation of assets; it emphasizes that these measures must comply with the constitution and the principles of the rule of law, and the best solution is a form agreed upon within the EU. It assumes that the current document is non-compliant and will not support it during a plenary vote.

Highlights the draft amendment to the Emergency Situation Act and the expansion of the list of vital services; addresses questions regarding the state’s role and funding, as well as ensuring preparedness. Very specific attention is focused on whether the state must assume these obligations itself and how reserves are secured.

The legislator's attention is directed toward new requirements for childcare services; the speaker poses questions and indicates acceptance of the pre-established regulations. There are no signs of concrete initiatives or steps centered on cooperation; the focus is on the necessity of discussion and the inclusion of justifications.

The main legislative priority is the imposition of a temporary bank tax: the bill “On the Imposition of a Temporary Solidarity Tax on the Banking Sector” has been submitted to the Riigikogu, and the government is called upon to take it up for consideration and discussion. The regulation of scooter insurance is also mentioned as part of the ongoing work on draft legislation (though not in its final version). Cooperation and progress are expected in the further processing of the bill, and the necessity for collaboration and the swift discussion of the pending drafts is emphasized.

The legislative focus centers on discussion and deliberation: the need to discuss the situation, develop a communication plan, and find solutions, rather than rushing decisions, is emphasized. Specific draft legislation is absent, but long-term vision and opportunities for parliamentary oversight are stressed at the Riigikogu level.

The primary focus is on the draft sugar tax bill and the discussion surrounding it; administrative costs and unrealistic projected tax revenues are emphasized. A pause is requested, along with the involvement of the Council of Elders and the development of a communication strategy to prevent unexpected consequences and the spread of misinformation between the Riigikogu (Parliament) and the public.