Democrats Announce Legislative Blitz to Reverse Previous Government's Policies

The Democratic Party faction announced on Tuesday, with the swearing-in of the new Knesset, a comprehensive legislative package aimed at reversing policies of the previous government and enacting reforms in law, society, and personal security. The faction described the move as an "attempt to fix what the government broke and legislate protections to prevent similar harm in the future."

Key proposals in the legal sphere include changes to the powers of the Police Internal Investigations Department and the Attorney General, alterations to the composition of the Judicial Appointments Committee, and regulation of rabbinical court authorities in arbitration and alimony matters. They also plan legislation concerning media, the incapacitation of public officials, and gender segregation in academia. Furthermore, the Democrats intend to advance a ban on serving as prime minister while under criminal indictment and to limit the terms of prime ministers.

In areas of social welfare and security, the package includes proposals for the rehabilitation of the North and Gaza envelope communities, such as codifying the "Tnu'afa" plan and increasing preferential employment grants in the North. For the families of hostages and returnees, they propose grants for fallen soldiers' families, adjustment grants for returnees experiencing income reduction, and recognition of families as victims of hostile acts. Combating crime is also addressed with a proposed amendment to the Police Ordinance.

The faction also seeks to advance a Basic Law on Equality and eight "Sagi Laws" to promote LGBTQ+ rights. Social initiatives include a Basic Law on Social Rights, changes to old-age pensions, aid for young people without family support, state long-term care insurance, the Ran Cohen Law, protection for kindergartens, and the establishment of a national authority for treating combat stress casualties. Psychological treatment for victims of hostile acts is also part of the plan.

To address the cost of living, the Democrats aim to mandate the publication of financial reports for monopolies and to establish a state inquiry commission. In matters of religion and state, proposals include promoting public transportation on Shabbat, civil marriage, and changing the status of the Chief Rabbinate. The faction emphasized that the goal is not only to repeal past legislation and policy but also to establish principles and protections in law that will be difficult to alter in the future.