Flood 2024. Government adopts bill to aid flood victims

The government has adopted a bill aimed at facilitating the removal of the disaster’s effects and implementing aid for flood victims in various forms. The bill was approved during Tuesday’s session, and its first reading in the Sejm will take place tomorrow.

Aid for flood victims

One of the key elements of the bill is direct financial assistance to individuals affected by the flood. From the Subsidy Fund, non-repayable assistance will be provided to create new housing units within the municipality’s housing stock, covering 100% of investment costs, as well as for the renovation of inhabited municipal housing units, with financing ranging from 70% to 100% of the project cost. The support will also cover the renovation or reconstruction of existing municipal housing stock, owned by municipal companies or social housing initiatives created with the participation of the Subsidy Fund or under the government’s preferential loans program for social rental housing. In these cases, 70% of the costs will be covered.

Support for students

The special bill also provides assistance for students from flood-affected areas. Children will receive a one-time payment of PLN 1,000 for the purchase of textbooks, school supplies, and educational equipment (random benefit). Additionally, parents of these children will be able to take extra days off work to care for them if childcare centers such as nurseries or kindergartens remain closed.

Support for employees

The bill also introduces several benefits for employees. Employers will be able to extend the period for paying wages during an employee’s justified absence due to the flood. Additionally, employees will receive four extra “on-demand” leave days and the option to take vacation leave in hourly increments, not exceeding five days in total.

Energy allowances and technical support

Flood-affected individuals who have already received or will receive flood relief will receive additional financial support of PLN 1,000. These funds will be allocated to cover energy consumption costs or purchase fuel for generators needed to dry out homes or apartments.

Support for rescue services and infrastructure rebuilding

The special bill also includes support for rescue services. Firefighters, rescuers, and other units involved in flood zone operations will receive additional compensation for overtime work, with no limit, as well as modern equipment to facilitate rescue operations.

The new regulations are set to come into effect immediately after their publication in the Journal of Laws, enabling the swift implementation of aid for those affected.

main photo: Kancelaria Prezesa Rady Ministrów