Knesset Legal Counsel Defends Haredi Budget Transfers as Lawful and Routine

The Knesset's legal bureau has officially rejected petitions filed to the Supreme Court challenging budget transfers approved by the Finance Committee during the election period. In a response submitted on Sunday, the bureau affirmed that the transfers were conducted legally and in accordance with long-standing parliamentary practice. The legal opinion strongly supports the Knesset Speaker's authority to convene committees under special circumstances, citing Section 112(b) of the Knesset Rules of Procedure.

The bureau noted that no procedural flaws occurred during the Finance Committee's meeting that would justify judicial intervention in what is an internal parliamentary matter. It emphasized that similar procedures have been routinely applied during previous election recesses, including in the 24th Knesset, when the Speaker authorized three budget transfer discussions after the Arrangements Committee rejected convening requests.

This year, out of 13 requested budget transfers, only six were approved following a thorough legal review and the Speaker's acceptance of government arguments regarding their urgency, such as funding for the school year, salaries, and suppliers. The legal bureau stressed that these transfers underwent the full governmental approval process, including legal advice to the government and adherence to the Finance Committee's protocols.

The bureau's position underscores the principle of separation of powers and parliamentary autonomy in managing internal affairs, arguing that judicial interference in such matters is unwarranted. The response thus defends the legitimacy of the budget transfers and the Speaker's role in facilitating parliamentary functions during election periods.