Finance Committee Chair Accuses Knesset Legal Counsel of Overreach and Disrupting Work

Hanoch Milwitsky, chairman of the Knesset Finance Committee, sent a sharp letter to Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana accusing the Knesset legal counsel of exceeding its authority, delaying committee work, and politicizing its role. Milwitsky claims the legal counsel has obstructed the approval of budget transfers and even coordinated positions with opposition members ahead of committee discussions to limit debate time, potentially blocking essential budget approvals.

Milwitsky described the legal counsel's actions as a "deliberate policy of overreach, politicization, and direct harm to the Knesset's powers." He stated that the legal counsel no longer confines itself to providing professional opinions but actively disrupts the Knesset's functioning. To avoid paralysis, Milwitsky said he had to distribute budget requests before receiving legal counsel feedback. He urged Speaker Ohana to intervene and ensure the legal counsel returns to its advisory role without impeding elected officials.

This letter follows a recent investigative documentary aired by Channel 14, which highlighted the growing influence of the Knesset legal counsel, shifting from a purely advisory role to a powerful actor shaping legislation and policy. The report included interviews with Knesset members and experts who expressed concern about lawmakers' dependence on the legal counsel and fear of confrontation that could delay or block legislative initiatives.

The legal counsel's legal advisor, Attorney Shagit Afek, and Speaker Ohana were mentioned in the context of this dispute. The controversy centers on the balance of power within the Knesset and the proper role of the legal counsel in legislative processes.