Cantonal vote FR Fribourg government wants to ease the burden on families at risk of poverty

On September 22, the people of Fribourg will decide on the law on supplementary benefits for families (FamELG). For the cantonal government, this is an "important measure to combat poverty", as it announced on Wednesday.

The FamELG offers families with at least one child under the age of twelve temporary support in the form of financial assistance and social care. The supplementary benefits are intended to enable those affected to avoid claiming social welfare or to opt out of it.

The state of Fribourg estimates that around 1,500 families could benefit from these services. According to the press release, the costs for the canton amount to CHF 15 million per year, while the municipalities would also save CHF 4.4 million in social welfare costs.

"Decent living conditions"

According to the cantonal government, the law aims to guarantee "humane living conditions" for children. In the canton of Fribourg, 25,000 people are considered to be at risk of poverty, out of a population of over 330,000 inhabitants. In affected households, children would also represent an even higher risk of poverty.

The bill was approved by the Grand Council on February 8 by 90 votes to 10 with two abstentions, but nevertheless triggered a heated debate. The vote was the result of a two-day dispute between the State Council, the responsible committee and the parliamentary groups.

If the electorate approves the bill, the law is expected to come into force on January 1.