MK Carmel Shama-Hacohen
Photo: Alex Kolomoisky
Bill: IDF service to boost affordable housing point
Legislation aims to correct Housing Ministry's 'point system' which favors married couples over those who served in IDF
The Housing Ministry's new affordable housing subsidies' criteria have already led to counter legislation attempts, Ynet learned Thursday.
According to Housing and Construction Minister Ariel Atias most recent proposal, Israelis will be able to vie for affordable housing point by meeting two main stipulations: Military service, which awards up to 20 points; and residency in Israel or marriage, which award up to 80 points.
Price Hike
Amnon Atad, Calcalist
Central Bureau of Statistics figures for past year reveal price hikes in electricity (13%), rent (4.3%) and petrol (7.3%); reductions recorded in prices of fresh fruit (14.4%), vegetables (11%) and communication (7.7%). Inflation rate totals 2.2%
Shama-Hacohen said that a couple that did not serve in the army but instead got married at 18, effectively gains more "subsidy points" that couple who served in the IDF.
His bill aims to declare that the couple's average years in service will count for the sake of subsidy points.
"Today's situation sees citizens who served in the IDF discriminated against when they apply for affordable housing subsidies. They risk their lives and contribute to this country, but that's held against the, because they lack 'marriage points' compared to those who do not serve in the army," he said.
His bill, he added, aims to correct the travesty.
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