The Knesset Labor and Welfare Committee has unanimously approved the preliminary reading of MK Tali Ploskov's (Kulanu) bill to adjust the maternity benefits paid to independent workers.
MK Ploskov proposed that the amount paid be based on the woman's earning in the year prior to becoming pregnant, rather than on the year in which she was pregnant as is the current standard. This would not apply if the current year's earnings are higher.
She claims that the change would neutralize the impact of pregnancy difficulties and absences from work for checkups. The bill was approved as a temporary measure for five years, after which its effects will be examined and it can be made permanent.