Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-02-22 07:36:04
The Persons With Disabilities Bill, 2023 has the potential to bring significant relief to persons with disabilities and their guardians if it is passed by the Senate. The Bill has recently undergone amendments in the house by a 33-0 vote, with the aim of enhancing the welfare of select PWDs. One of the key amendments added to the Bill is a clause that seeks to provide a tax exemption of up to Ksh 150,000 for parents and legal guardians of persons with disabilities.
According to the newly added clause, the Cabinet Secretary for finance may grant an income tax exemption certificate of up to Ksh 150,000 to a parent or legal guardian of a person with severe disability, upon application. However, in order to qualify for the exemption, the parent or guardian must undergo a medical assessment that determines the severity of the disability and mandates full-time care of the person.
In addition to the tax exemption, the Bill also proposes a monthly stipend for parents or legal guardians who are full-time caregivers of persons with disabilities, with a minimum amount of Ksh 10,000. To qualify for the stipend, individuals must apply through the Cabinet Secretary in charge of social protection. This provision aims to provide financial support to those who are indigent and assume custody as the full-time caregiver of a person with severe disability.
Furthermore, the Bill places the responsibility on the Cabinet Secretary and the National Council for Persons With Disabilities (NCPWD) to formulate regulations for the proper implementation of the proposed amendments.
This Bill is particularly significant as it is the second one proposed within a span of two months with the aim of improving the welfare of Persons Living With Disability (PWDs). Another proposed legislation by Kipipiri MP Wanjiru Muhia seeks to impose fines of up to Ksh 1 million for discriminating against PWDs. It also emphasizes the use of dignified language in the registration of persons with disabilities and discourages the use of undignified or offensive names and language when referring to them.
The aim of these legislative initiatives is to address the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in order to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for them. If the Persons With Disabilities Bill, 2023 is passed and implemented effectively, it has the potential to significantly improve the lives of PWDs and their caregivers in Kenya.
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