New Changes in Law on Temporary Maintenance to Protect Children: Streamlining Process, Enforcing Payment Obligations

The state has recently made significant changes to the Law on Temporary Maintenance in order to better protect children who are not living with their parents and are not receiving adequate financial support. Under the new law, the amount paid to a child from an average of 100 to 200 euros per month, with exceptions for cases where the responsible party is unable to pay the full amount. In these cases, the child will receive the difference up to the legal minimum.

The period for payment of compensation will be extended, lasting until the responsible party begins fulfilling their obligation. This will allow children to receive support until they reach adulthood. In cases of serious illness or disability, children who are unable to work will continue to receive temporary maintenance. The new law streamlines the process for recognizing and paying temporary maintenance by shortening the deadline for submitting requests.

The state will now handle temporary maintenance claims through the Agency for Insurance Workers’ Claims. Grandparents will no longer be obligated to provide maintenance, and parents who fail to pay alimony will be pursued for repayment. If enforcement is unsuccessful, debt repayment through public work will be required. The law aims to improve the financial security of children and has support from all political parties.

However, there have been concerns raised by opposition parties about enforcing temporary maintenance claims and collecting debts. They question whether the Agency for Insurance Workers’ Claims can handle the increased workload and propose alternative measures for collecting debts. They also suggest that the state should pay full alimony and expedite request processing times.

The second reading of this bill is expected in fall with implementation set for end of year