Families affected by New Vehicle Regulation: MP Ferhat criticizes policy

Rodopi’s New Left MP Özgür Ferhat criticized a new regulation set to take effect on January 1, 2025, which will exclude families with vehicles over 1,600 cc from the Child Benefit (A21) program. Ferhat stated that the regulation would unfairly impact thousands of families.

In a statement from his political office, Ferhat pointed out that the new rule would deny child benefits to families with vehicles over 1,600 cc, regardless of the vehicle's age or purpose. He emphasized that this policy would especially harm farming families and extended families in rural areas.

"An Unjust Approach"
Ferhat argued that high engine capacity vehicles are not always a sign of economic prosperity, as many families purchased these vehicles during better economic times, and today, they should not be considered luxuries. He also noted that agricultural vehicles are essential for daily operations and professional needs, and the regulation would place additional burdens on farmers and rural families.

"Thousands of Families Will Be Affected"
Ferhat criticized the regulation for being based solely on the technical specifications of vehicles, rather than family income, which he argued goes against the principle of social justice. He pointed out that agricultural vehicles used by farmers should be exempt, and the fact that older vehicles no longer reflect current economic conditions should be taken into account.

Ferhat called on the government to review the regulation, urging fair and realistic solutions to protect children’s basic rights and prevent further hardship for families.