Committee Stages Completed On Two Bills

by Desk Editor on Wednesday, March 25, 2015 — 9:58 PM

Legislation stopping students applying for accommodation allowances has made progress in the House.

The committee stage of the Social Security Amendment Bill (No 3) was completed this evening.

The bill was introduced in November 2010 with the intention of clarifying a number of legal issues in regards to welfare payments. The bill also prevents students applying for the accommodation supplement instead of the student allowance.

Social Development Minister Anne Tolley said some students were opting out of the student allowance and getting the accommodation supplement. Mrs Tolley said the loophole should be closed as they provision of assistance for students was a separate policy area from income assistance for low income workers and those out of work.

Students gained some benefit from their studies and were in a different position from others she said.

Labour’ Chris Hipkins argued students should be able to get the same assistance as others.

Most votes on the bill went 95 to 25 with Greens and NZ First opposing and the bill was reported with amendment.

Earlier, after Question Time and the General Debate, the committee stage of the Taxation (KiwiSaver HomeStart and Remedial Matters) Bill was completed and it was reported without amendment on a voice vote.

The committee stage of the Immigration Amendment Bill (No 2) was interrupted when the House rose just before 10pm.

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