The Council of Ministers has given the green light to a crucial reform with the approval of the Royal Decree-Law for the simplification and improvement of the welfare level of unemployment protection. This new regulation brings with it important advances in the labor and social areas, with the aim of strengthening workers’ rights and offering greater support to those in vulnerable situations.
Main Changes Introduced by the New Law
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Simplification and Improvement of Unemployment Protection: The new regulations seek to simplify and improve the level of unemployment protection assistance, ensuring that unemployed workers receive more efficient and accessible support. This includes the elimination of bureaucratic hurdles and the implementation of more streamlined processes for applying for and receiving benefits.
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Accumulation of Breastfeeding Hours: One of the most important changes is the possibility of accumulating paid hours of absence for breastfeeding. From now on, all employees will have this right without the need for it to be included in the collective bargaining agreement or in an agreement with the company. This measure facilitates the reconciliation of work and family life, providing greater flexibility to working parents.
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Elimination of the Deduction for Part-Time Work: In order to promote equity and fairness in the labor field, the current deduction for part-time work is eliminated. This change is intended to avoid inequalities and ensure that all workers, regardless of their working hours, are treated fairly and equitably in terms of taxation.
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New Subsidy for Victims of Gender Violence: In an effort to support people in vulnerable situations, a new subsidy is created for victims of gender violence. This grant will provide an economic safety net for victims, helping them to rebuild their lives and to get out of abusive situations more easily.
Impact of the New Law in the Labor and Social Sphere
The approval of this new regulation represents a significant advance in the protection of labor and social rights in Spain. By simplifying unemployment protection, it facilitates access to benefits for those who need them most, ensuring faster and more efficient support.
The accrual of breastfeeding hours as a universal right strengthens the work-life balance, benefiting thousands of families and promoting greater gender equality in the workplace.
The elimination of the deduction for part-time work and the creation of a subsidy for victims of gender violence are measures that reinforce the Government’s commitment to equity and social justice, providing greater support to those facing situations of vulnerability.
Conclusion
The approval of the Royal Decree-Law for the simplification and improvement of the welfare level of unemployment protection is a step forward in the construction of a fairer and more inclusive labor environment. With these new measures, the Government demonstrates its commitment to protecting workers’ rights and supporting people in vulnerable situations. These reforms will not only improve the quality of life of many workers and their families, but will also strengthen the social and economic fabric of the country.