Grand Council AG Aargau parliament approves significantly higher family allowance
In the canton of Aargau, the monthly family and education allowances are to be increased by 25 francs each. This was decided by the Grand Council on Tuesday by 68 votes to 64. The SP, Center, GLP and EVP were in favour. The SVP and FDP voted against.
25.06.2024, 16:59
25.06.2024, 17:06
SDA
The Government Council proposed increasing the family allowance by ten francs from the national minimum of 200 francs. It wanted to leave the education allowance for young people aged 16 and over at the federal minimum of CHF 250 per month. The cantonal government reckoned with additional costs for companies of CHF 17 million.
In 21 cantons, the family allowance is currently higher than in the canton of Aargau. The decision to increase the allowance by 25 francs each was preceded by an emotional debate in parliament. The centrist proposal of 25 francs prevailed in several votes.
The parliamentary committee had proposed increasing the allowances by CHF 40 each. Parliament rejected this proposal by 79 votes to 53.
SVP wanted no increase at all
During the discussion, the FDP spoke out in favor of the government council's proposal. A higher increase would have an "extremely negative effect" on the economy, stated an FDP spokesperson. We should support those who urgently need it. The money should not be distributed by watering can.
The SVP parliamentary group did not want to know anything about an increase. Lower taxes and not higher child allowances would make Aargau more attractive. Higher contributions would become a burden for many businesses.
GLP also in favor of 40 francs more
The SP, Greens, GLP and EVP were in favor of an increase of 40 francs each. In Aargau, these allowances were last increased in 2006, they said.
Aargau must come closer to the higher Swiss average. This is a "real relief for families", the supporters stated. The middle class must be supported.
The centrists backed their proposal to adjust the family and education allowance for young people aged 16 and over by CHF 25 each.
Referendum is possible
Parliament's decision is not yet final. The Grand Council will discuss the introductory law to the federal law on family allowances a second time. The cantonal government must calculate how high the costs of the increase will be for the economy.
It is possible that the people will ultimately decide on the law in a referendum.
Employers finance the family allowances. They have to transfer contributions to the family equalization fund on the wages they pay out that are subject to AHV contributions. The amount is currently 1.45 percent of the AHV payroll. The child or education allowance is paid directly to the employee with their salary.
