By Agendas: Maris Lauri

Total Agendas: 36

Fully Profiled: 36

2025-10-13
First Reading of the Draft Legislation (736 SE) on the Amendment of the State Budget Act and the Act Amending the State Budget Act

15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

Speaker 1 stresses the consensus-driven work within the Finance Committee, noting that every decision reached was unanimous. Speaker 2 recommends that colleagues, should they be unclear about anything, ask others, highlighting an openness to collaborative knowledge sharing with experts from different sectors.
2025-10-09
Discussion of the Crucial National Issue 'The Future of the Estonian Economy'

15th Riigikogu, 6th Session, Plenary Sitting

The speaker emphasizes the need for cooperation between businesses and researchers to deepen R&D, in order to bridge the "gap" between the theoretical and practical sides. When addressing social problems (such as bringing discouraged individuals back into the labor market), he sees the necessity for broad collaboration among family, friends, and professional support structures.
2025-09-17
Re-examination of the Act Amending the Act Preventing Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing and the Act on International Sanctions (640 UA), which was not announced by the President of the Republic

15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary sitting.

The collaborative style is open and inclusive, emphasizing the Finance Committee's consensus decisions regarding the return of the draft bill. He/She invites all interested parties, including institutions and organizations (e.g., the Financial Supervision Authority), to participate in new discussions on the bill. He/She notes that the Ministry of Finance has proposals for amending the draft bill.
2025-09-16
The Chancellor of Justice's report on the conformity of legislative acts with the Constitution and the performance of other duties assigned to the Chancellor by law.

Fifteenth Riigikogu, sixth sitting, plenary sitting.

The style of cooperation is open and consultative, as the rapporteur relies on the positions of two committees (the Constitutional Affairs Committee and the Finance Committee). Furthermore, he/she actively seeks critical input and observations in order to refine the draft bill during its subsequent proceedings.
2025-09-11
The Financial Supervision Authority's 2024 Report

15th Riigikogu, 6th plenary sitting

Strong inter-institutional cooperation is emphasized, particularly in the fight against financial fraud. Mention is made of the joint effort by the Financial Supervision Authority, the Bank of Estonia, the police, the IT sector, and other agencies to find solutions. This demonstrates a clear preference for broad, cross-sectoral collaboration.
2025-06-18
Continuation of the first reading of the draft law on the sharing of credit information (652 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The style of cooperation is consensual and inclusive, emphasizing that all procedural decisions made by the Finance Committee concerning the draft bill were reached unanimously. This indicates an openness to compromise and a commitment to seeking broad-based support throughout the legislative process.
2025-06-17
Draft law amending the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Act and the International Sanctions Act (640 SE) - second reading

15th Estonian Parliament, 5th session, plenary session

The speaker emphasized the consensus-based cooperation within the Finance Committee, noting that all decisions and proposed amendments received unanimous support in the committee. He highlighted the close collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, RAB, and the Data Protection Inspectorate (AKI), mentioning specifically that AKI’s recommendations regarding narrowing the scope of data usage and elevating the relevant provisions to the level of law have been taken into consideration.
2025-06-11
Draft law amending the simplified taxation act for entrepreneurs and the income tax act, and repealing the security tax act – second reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The speaker emphasizes their role as the committee's representative, defending the consensus achieved within the committee and the technical drafting amendments. They acknowledge the inherent nature of coalition government decisions, which inevitably bear "the face of the coalition" and reflect the political balance.
2025-06-10
The Chairman of the Supreme Court’s overview of court orders, the administration of justice, and the uniform application of laws.

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting.

The cooperative approach is respectful and seeks dialogue with the representative of the highest judicial authority, requesting an assessment from the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court regarding the legal dilemma that has arisen. This demonstrates a readiness to consult with the judiciary when resolving complex parliamentary decisions.
2025-05-20
Draft law amending the Enterprise Income Tax Simplification Act, the Security Tax Act, and the Income Tax Act (645 SE) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The collaborative approach is evident in the proceedings of the Finance Committee, which managed to reach a consensus decision on placing the draft bill on the agenda. At the political level, emphasis is placed on the internal majority of the ruling coalition ("the two right-wing parties") and their unified commitment to standing up for a better Estonia.
2025-05-20
Draft law amending the Law on Preventing Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (640 SE) - First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

The style of cooperation is consensual and inclusive, emphasizing that all commission decisions were unanimous. The collaboration involved bringing experts from government representatives (Minister Jürgen Ligi) and official authorities (Matis Mäeker, Head of the Money Laundering Data Bureau) into the discussion.
2025-05-15
Draft law on harmonizing the State Budget Act with the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (580 SE) – first reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session

The style of cooperation demonstrates consensus on procedural matters, such as placing the draft bill on the agenda and appointing the representative of the lead committee. A strong majority was reached on the substantive issue (the proposal for rejection), but not full consensus.
2025-05-08
Draft Law on Declaring the Security Tax Act Invalid (595 SE) - First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting

Procedural decisions within the committee (such as placing the draft bill on the agenda and appointing a representative) were made by consensus. Substantive cooperation in supporting the draft bill was absent, as the motion to reject the bill was adopted with 6 votes in favor and 2 against. The opposition expressed a desire to merge the draft bills, which suggests an openness to cooperation.
2025-03-20
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu, "Submitting a proposal to the Government of the Republic to close the temporary control line between the Republic of Estonia and the Russian Federation" (562 OE)

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

The approach to cooperation is consultative and pragmatic, urging colleagues to make well-considered decisions based on the threat assessment compiled by government security agencies. It emphasizes the necessity of being comprehensively prepared for responsive measures, which requires collaboration between government institutions and the Riigikogu.
2025-01-16
Draft law amending the State Budget Act (520 SE) - First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session

Stresses the need to widely involve interest groups and budget users in amending the State Budget Act, citing the government's thorough preparation. There is absolutely no readiness for cooperation regarding the specific opposition draft bill, as it lacks sufficient substance. Calls for a serious discussion on the topic of responsibility within the committees.
2024-12-17
Draft law on aligning the State Budget Act with the Constitution of the Republic of Estonia (525 SE) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

The text refers to a previous offer of cooperation made to the Centre Party and Isamaa regarding support for the amendments to Draft Bill 511. They refused this offer, thereby demonstrating openness to substantive unification. Within the committee, a consensus was reached on placing the draft bill on the agenda and appointing a representative, but the motion to reject the draft bill was subsequently passed with majority support (6 in favour, 2 against).
2024-12-11
Third reading of the draft law on the 2025 state budget (513 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

The cooperation is described as a compromise between three parties within the government, which is in line with the constitution. A positive example was also highlighted: the opposition drew attention to the necessity of funding the Estonian Book Year, which subsequently led to a budget amendment. However, the speaker criticizes the opposition's internal communication within the faction, specifically citing the failure to forward commission materials.
2024-12-04
Second reading of the draft law on the security tax (512 SE)

15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting

Works closely with the Ministry of Finance on clarifying the draft bill and preparing amendments. Emphasizes consensual support for most of the amendments proposed by the committee. Met with interest groups (e.g., the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, trade unions, the central confederation of employers) and notes that they had no opposition to the introduction of the security tax.
2024-11-13
Second reading of the draft law on the 2025 state budget (513 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session.

The text emphasizes the necessity of achieving internal coalition compromise during budget preparation, arguing that such compromise reflects the partners' shared understanding. It deems adherence to Riigikogu rules paramount and justifies the Finance Committee's decision to reject non-compliant amendment proposals. Furthermore, it does not signal any desire to cooperate with the opposition, instead highlighting the fundamental differences in their respective viewpoints.
2024-11-13
Draft law amending the State Budget Act (511 SE) - Second Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session.

It emphasizes internal committee consensus and close cooperation with the Ministry of Finance, the National Audit Office, and the Office of the Chancellor of Justice to ensure the technical feasibility of the amendments. It is open to future wide-ranging discussions regarding the future of the budget, but rejects amendment proposals that were hastily prepared and are technically infeasible.
2024-11-06
Overview of the Use and Preservation of State Property in 2023–2024. Five Years of Activity-Based State Budget: Results of the Reform and Necessary Further Decisions

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

The speaker strongly emphasizes the urgent need for meaningful cooperation with the opposition to improve the budgeting system and avoid rushing the process. He/She calls for a joint discussion and genuine collaboration aimed at making things better.
2024-10-23
A written request for a vote of no confidence in Finance Minister Jürgen Ligi, submitted by 29 members of the Riigikogu.

15th Riigikogu, 4th sitting, plenary session

The speaker emphasizes that in a healthy democracy, both the coalition and the opposition must substantively fulfill their respective roles. Direct cooperation with other parties is not mentioned, but there is a call for meaningful work within the committees, which indicates a desire to see constructive, albeit adversarial, work.
2024-10-16
Draft Security Tax Act (512 SE) – First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

The Finance Committee achieved procedural consensus regarding placing the draft bill on the plenary agenda, but the motion to conclude the first reading received split support (5 in favor, 3 against). Internationally, strong and successful cooperation with representatives from the other Baltic states, Scandinavia, and Great Britain is highlighted, underscoring the value of teamwork. Domestically, the speaker urges cooperation and unity to prevent mutual undermining and obstruction.
2024-10-16
Draft law amending the State Budget Act (511 SE) - First Reading

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary sitting

The speaker strongly emphasizes constructive cooperation within the Riigikogu and openness to improving the draft bill by making necessary amendments. The committee's decisions regarding placing the bill on the agenda and concluding the first reading were reached by consensus, demonstrating a clear readiness for cross-party collaboration.
2024-09-17
Report by the Chancellor of Justice on the compliance of legal instruments with the Constitution and the performance of other duties imposed on the Chancellor of Justice by law.

15th Riigikogu, 4th session, plenary session

The speaker strongly emphasizes the necessity of cooperation, inclusion, and seeking compromises, considering this the basis for upholding constitutionalism. He calls for listening to others, striving to understand them, and refraining from demanding the absolute maximum in all matters if doing so harms others. Cooperation is necessary to keep society balanced and prevent internal fragmentation.
2024-09-11
Second reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Financial Supervision Authority Act and Other Acts (422 SE)

Fifteenth Riigikogu, fourth session, plenary session

The style of cooperation is consensual and inclusive, emphasizing that all procedural decisions and the consideration of proposed amendments took place in the Finance Committee "by consensus." The reaching out to market participants for their opinions was also noted, which demonstrates an openness to engagement.
2024-06-13
Financial Supervision Authority 2023 Annual Report

Fifteenth Riigikogu, Third Session, Plenary Session

The speaker emphasizes the need for constructive cooperation between relevant institutions, government authorities, and the private sector. He/She points to the collective agreement within the Riigikogu regarding the resolution of the social account issue, demonstrating openness to collaboration and finding solutions.
2024-06-10
First Reading of the Draft Act on the 2024 Supplementary Budget (456 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The speaker sincerely hopes for responsibility and the finding of common ground in resolving the budget crisis, even though they express pessimism about this actually coming to pass. They emphasize that budget cuts require a wider understanding and cooperation among all state institutions, ministries, and local governments. Cooperation is presented as a matter of responsibility and honesty.
2024-05-30
Discussion of the nationally important issue: "How can the state avoid living in debt?"

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary sitting

The speaker stresses the necessity of a swift and seamless procedure concerning the supplementary budget and hopes that grandstanding politicians won't start obstructing it. While critical of the past, colleagues are urged to find a way out of the current situation and act collectively in the name of Estonia.
2024-05-30
Second Reading of the Draft Act on the Crypto Asset Market (Bill 398 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The cooperation style within the commission is pragmatic and consensual, with several amendments (such as extending the transition period to 1.5 years and the proposals put forward by the Ministry of Finance) receiving support. It is emphasized that the commission reached a consensus to consider the changes prepared by the Ministry of Finance concerning remote identification. However, the positions of the commission's majority, which stood against the minority's proposals, are also highlighted, illustrating the limits of the compromise.
2024-05-16
Debate on the matter of national importance initiated by the Economic Affairs Committee: "How to increase productivity in the Estonian economy?"

Fifteenth Riigikogu, Third Session, Plenary Session

The collaborative style is appreciative and constructive, commending the preparatory work and presentations. Hope is expressed that important issues will receive thorough consideration going forward, both in the Riigikogu committees, ministries, and at the government level, which indicates a desire for broad-based political cooperation.
2024-05-16
First Reading of the Bill to Amend the Financial Supervision Authority Act and Other Acts (422 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The style of cooperation is consensual, emphasizing that all decisions of the Finance Committee were made unanimously. Broad-based cooperation with stakeholders is also highlighted; they are invited to the committee to express their views and confirm whether the issues have been resolved.
2024-05-15
First Reading of the Draft Act Amending the Social Welfare Act and Other Acts (Special Welfare Services and Changing the Address of Residence) (421 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session

The style of cooperation is formal and procedural, manifested by a direct question posed to the minister during the first reading of the draft bill. The speaker is open to dialogue and obtaining clarifications during the legislative process.
2024-05-08
The 2024 Report by the Minister of Finance on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Eesti 2035" (including an overview of public service development trends in 2022 and 2023)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session.

The speaker emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility for the soundness of the budget and calls upon both the government and the opposition to act responsibly. The style of cooperation is conditional, requiring swift action and sincerity from all parties in order to "put out the fire."
2024-05-08
Second reading of the Draft Act amending the State Budget Act (391 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd session, plenary session.

The style of cooperation is consensus-based and compromise-driven, emphasizing that all decisions made by the Finance Committee regarding the further processing of the draft bill were reached by consensus. Cooperation was also undertaken with the Government, taking into account their fundamental support and conditions for amending the draft bill, specifically to include the requirement to consider the economic forecast.
2024-04-09
First Reading of the Crypto-Asset Market Act Bill (398 SE)

15th Riigikogu, 3rd sitting, plenary session

The style of cooperation is institutional, emphasizing internal commission consensus (decisions were adopted with 8 votes in favor) and strong cooperation between the Financial Supervisory Authority and the Financial Intelligence Unit. The speaker himself/herself has been appointed as the commission's representative, which demonstrates the trust placed in him/her by colleagues.