The Vaudois deputies do not want the canton to automatically grant health insurance subsidies. A resolution from the left going in this direction was rejected on Tuesday by the right-wing majority of the Grand Council.
Currently, people who are entitled to a subsidy must submit an application online or to a social insurance agency in their region. Conversely, in several cantons such as Geneva, Neuchâtel, Jura or Valais, the health insurance subsidy is granted automatically on the basis of the tax declaration, noted Marc Vuilleumier (Together on the left – POP), the author of the resolution. “We are not asking for more rights, but that they apply to those who are entitled to them,” he said.
Several left-wing deputies supported his request. According to them, automation would make it possible to avoid leaving on the sidelines people who are “lost” in the face of “administrative complexities” or who show “modesty” in asking for aid. Automatically allocating subsidies would also make the process “simpler and more efficient” and avoid “delays” in their granting.
For the right, on the other hand, the allocation of a subsidy must be accompanied by a “formal request”, a certain “effort” from the person requesting it. Several deputies also noted that the work of social workers and the information provided to the population was sufficient. They also called for “respecting the choice” of those who do not wish to seek such assistance.
“Widely known” system
Several arguments from the right were supported by State Councilor Rebecca Ruiz. The minister in charge of health and social action notably indicated that the LAMal subsidy system was “widely known” among the Vaudois population. It was based in particular on “a limited return rate” to letters sent to people who could qualify for a subsidy.
For Rebecca Ruiz, if efforts are to be made, it is in particular to “strengthen e-administration” and reduce the wait for people who have applied for a subsidy.
In the vote, Marc Vuilleumier’s resolution was rejected by 76 votes, while 63 supported it and 2 abstained. The Popist has already suggested that he would return to the charge on this subject, via a motion or a popular initiative.
In reaction to this refusal, around ten associations, organizations, unions and parties, grouped within the Committee to Fight for the Automaticity of Benefits (CLAP), reacted in a press release. They criticize “the shocking choice of an anti-social policy” which leaves “a significant part of the population in a precarious situation.” And to add that they will continue their “struggle for the automaticity of benefits throughout the socialized salary.”
This article was automatically published. Source: ats
