Romania’s Social Democrats secured Senate committee backing to exempt vulnerable groups—including mothers on parental leave, war veterans, disabled persons, former political prisoners, and religious members—from social health insurance contributions (CASS). Opposition backs the bills, while the ruling Liberals oppose them to preserve fiscal stability.
Romania’s Social Democratic Party (PSD) gained support in the Senate’s labour and health committees for two legislative proposals exempting vulnerable groups—such as mothers on parental leave, war veterans, persons with disabilities, former political prisoners, and religious members—from paying the social health insurance contribution (CASS). The proposals, supported by opposition parties AUR, SOS, and UDMR, contradict recent government fiscal policies and are opposed by the ruling National Liberal Party (PNL), citing concerns over fiscal stability and budget deficit reduction. PSD Senator Marius Humelnicu defended the exemptions as necessary protections for vulnerable populations. PNL Senator Daniel Fenechiu emphasized the party’s commitment to coalition agreements prioritizing fiscal discipline, explaining that PNL will not support the bills to maintain budgetary stability. The proposals now proceed further in the legislative process.
