Agenda Profile: Rain Epler
First Reading of the Draft Act on Amendments to the Social Welfare Act and Other Acts (732 SE)
2025-10-15
The 15th Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political position strongly favors the protection of social standards, opposing changes that downgrade the definition of the subsistence benefit from "decent livelihood" to "basic subsistence." Criticism is also directed at legislative ambiguity concerning the minister's discretionary power in setting the rate of pensioner support, emphasizing the preservation of the Riigikogu’s role over budgetary expenditure lines. This position is clearly policy- and value-based.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates detailed knowledge of specific sections and subsections of the Social Welfare Act (e.g., § 133, § 139³). The expertise focuses on analyzing legal definitions (dignified subsistence vs. basic sustenance) and the procedural consequences of the draft legislation. Particular emphasis is placed on the impact of the law's wording on the powers of the Minister and the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is analytical, formal, and critical, employing direct questions addressed to the minister to seek clarification and justification. It appeals to logic and legislative consistency, emphasizing concern over the lowering of standards and the marginalization of the Riigikogu's role.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient data.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition is directed against the provisions of Government Bill 732 SE, which lower social standards and introduce procedural ambiguity. The criticism targets both the substance of the policy (changing definitions) and the procedure (excessive ministerial authority).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
It focuses exclusively on national legislation and nationwide social welfare benefits (subsistence allowance, pensioner's benefit).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic positions are linked to protecting the standards of social expenditure, opposing any changes that could lower benefit levels. Emphasis is placed on the need for clear control by the Riigikogu over the establishment of national expenditure lines.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The main social focus centers on social welfare and supporting recipients of subsistence benefits and pensioners. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of maintaining the standard of "decent living" as mandated by law.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is the critical review and subsequent amendment of the changes to the Social Welfare Act (Bill 732 SE). The focus is on ensuring the precision of the law’s wording, particularly the procedural clarity for establishing benefit rates and the preservation of the Riigikogu’s mandate.
3 Speeches Analyzed