Styria Extends In-Kind Benefits Card to Ukrainian Refugees

Styria is taking a decisive step towards responsible resource management by extending the in-kind benefits card system to Ukrainian refugees, a move that reflects a commitment to fairness for its hardworking citizens. Soziallandesrat Hannes Amesbauer emphasized that this system, which has been piloted and expanded to over 960 asylum seekers, ensures that the approximately 70 to 90 million Euros annually spent on basic support remains within the regional economy and is used for essential needs.

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Die Sachleistungskarte ist ein Gebot der Fairness gegenüber den hart arbeitenden Steirern, die das Grundversorgungssystem mit ihrem Steuergeld finanzieren müssen.

The introduction of the Sachleistungskarte, with only 40 Euros available as monthly pocket money, is a significant departure from unconditional cash handouts. This policy directly addresses public sentiment, as Amesbauer noted, "The population has long lost understanding that millions in taxpayer money are spent unconditionally on asylum seekers and refugees, especially in times of budget consolidation." This paradigm shift ties basic support to an active effort to integrate into the workforce, a crucial step for both the refugees and the regional economy.

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Wir wollen sicherstellen, dass öffentliche Mittel zweckgebunden eingesetzt werden, im regionalen Wirtschaftskreislauf bleiben und nicht in intransparente oder dubiose Strukturen abfließen.

The new regulations, expected to be approved by the provincial parliament on April 28, will link basic support to demonstrable efforts in seeking employment. The Public Employment Service (AMS) Steiermark will define these efforts, which can include job applications or training. Failure to comply could lead to reduced or terminated benefits, a necessary measure to ensure accountability and encourage self-sufficiency.

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Die Bevölkerung hat längst kein Verständnis mehr, dass Steuergeld in Millionenhöhe bedingungslos für Asylanten und Vertriebene aufgewendet wird, insbesondere in Zeiten von Budgetkonsolidierungen.

This initiative is particularly relevant for Ukrainian refugees, who have full access to the labor market and constitute the largest group receiving basic support in Styria. By linking benefits to employment efforts, Styria not only upholds fiscal responsibility but also actively facilitates the integration of refugees into the local economy. This approach contrasts with more lenient policies elsewhere, demonstrating Styria's pragmatic and results-oriented approach to integration and social welfare.

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Die Umstellung von Bargeldleistungen auf Sachleistungen sowie die Einführung von Bemühungspflichten für jene, die vollen Zugang zum Arbeitsmarkt haben, sind daher ein grundlegender Paradigmenwechsel.