Welfare funds gain more room for maneuver
Published: Wednesday, May 29th 2024, 09:01
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Corporate welfare funds are given more room for maneuver. Such foundations can now also pay out benefits in emergencies such as illness or unemployment. After the National Council, the Council of States also approved a corresponding amendment to the law on Wednesday.
The small chamber reached its decision by 42 votes to 0 with no abstentions. The matter is therefore ready for the final vote.
Historically, welfare funds were primarily active in the area of occupational pensions. Before the creation of the compulsory pension fund, they were an important instrument for this, as committee spokesman Erich Ettlin (center/OW) explained. They also provided support in old age, death and disability.
The bill is the result of a parliamentary initiative by FDP National Councillor Daniela Schneeberger from Basel. It was drafted by the Social Affairs Committee of the National Council.
Justice Minister Elisabeth Baume-Schneider only had reservations on one point. The fact that the funds could also finance measures for training and further education or for reconciling work and family life does not correspond to their purpose. This is because funds would de facto flow back to the employers. This concerns, among other things, the operation of crèches.
However, the Federal Council's objection was not heard in the small chamber.
©Keystone/SDA
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