Naghain ng panukala si Senator Leila de Lima na layong hindi na singilin ng income tax ang honoraria, allowances at ibang mga benepisyona matatanggap ng mga magsisilbi sa papalapit na halalan.
Sa kanyang Senate Bill No. 2456, sinabi ni de Lima na kinikilala niya ang matinding pagsasakripisyo at pagkakalagay sa panganib ng mga ‘poll workers.’
Sinabi pa nito na nakadagdag pa din ang banta ng COVID 19 sa kanila.
“In order to allow poll workers to fully enjoy the fruits of their labor and in recognition of their notable and honorable service to the Filipino people, even in hazardous environments during election seasons, this bill seeks to exempt from income tax, compensation given to persons rendering service during an election period for national or local elections,” dagdag pa ng senadora.
Aniya ang pagpapataw ng income tax sa mga honoraria, allowances at iba pang benepisyo ay ayon sa RA 10756 o ang Election Service Reform Act.
“This hard-earned income, which in many cases is barely enough to cover the daily needs of these individuals, also becomes the price for their safety and lives. The risks, both physical and moral, themselves justify a special treatment for the seasonal poll workers. Truly, the compensation that our poll workers receive is miniscule compared to their invaluable contribution to our democracy,” sabi pa ni de Lima, na dating election lawyer.