After the government approved the 'Basic Law: Torah Study' on first reading: Professional officials at the Ministry of Finance warned today (Sunday) during a discussion in the Knesset committee of the expected serious damage to the economy if the law is finally approved.
The Ministry of Finance warns of significant economic and security implications of the 'Basic Law on Torah Study', which may, according to the opinion submitted on the subject, lead to an increase in the reserve burden on the serving public and cost the economy amounts estimated at hundreds of billions of shekels.
""The Ministry of Finance expresses strong opposition to the law and warns that if the right to study Torah prevails over the principle of equality, this will lead to a serious violation of budgetary priorities and a diversion of resources and benefits on a large scale," the ministry noted. "The Ministry of Finance clarifies that due to the general wording, it is not possible to estimate the exact cost at this time, but these are serious economic and legal dangers for the economy.".
The Ministry of Finance further emphasized: "The law undermines the government's goals for integrating Haredim into the army and the labor market. Granting exemptions or returning benefits to those who evade service will perpetuate the burden of the reserve forces and prevent them from going to work, which will seriously harm growth and the welfare of all citizens, and will force the state to raise direct taxes by 16% in the future.".
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich came out against the professional elements of his ministry - saying: "This is complete ignorance, the law will not cost a shekel.".
The chairman of the United Torah Judaism faction, MK Uri Maklev, said in response to the Treasury's opinion: "This is not a professional document. It is a document of delusions, incitement, and lies, which seeks to turn a law of values into a budget law and measure the world of Torah in treasury tables.
""In a few words in the law, they have already reached allocations, budgets, services and employment. Apart from writing that the law will have a dramatic impact on the balance of the global economy - they wrote everything.".
""Torah study is the lifeblood of the Jewish people throughout all generations. A state must recognize fundamental values, and in a Jewish state, Torah study is a central and fundamental value.".
The Shas party issues a statement: "We are witnessing a scare campaign being conducted by finance officials against the Basic Law: Torah Study, based on false propaganda, unfounded data, and baseless scaremongering.".
""The public has already stopped being impressed by officials who exploit their power to advance a political agenda. Most Israeli citizens respect the Torah and cherish Lomedi.".
The party's statement further stated: "Shas will continue to stand resolutely alongside Torah students, and at the same time will continue to assist and support IDF soldiers and reservists.".
