Independent MP Marin Lerotić announced on Monday that he will not support the state budget for 2024, citing it as an inflated budget that fails to address the issues faced by citizens. He plans to submit about 20 amendments totaling 200 million euros.
The debate on the state budget for 2024 is currently on the agenda in Parliament, and Lerotić pointed out that next year being super-elective, the budget appears to be super-elective as well.
Lerotić expressed concern over the planned record deficit of four billion euros in the budget. He highlighted the fact that revenues are projected to grow by three percent, while expenditures are expected to increase by 11 percent. He criticized the government for not addressing the problems faced in healthcare, stating that it remains a bottomless pit with unresolved issues.
He also raised issues with the allocation of funds in the budget, pointing out a 70 percent increase in expenditures for public sector employees, while the budget for the Ministry of Economy’s stimulation of investments, industry, exports, and innovation is reduced by 52 percent. Additionally, the budget for defense expenditures is increased, while education expenses are cut.
Lerotić announced his plans to submit amendments worth 200 million euros, focusing on investments in youth, education, sports, road and port infrastructure, innovation, and new technologies. He emphasized the need for affordable housing for young people and proposed a generous amendment worth 130 million euros for the construction of apartments for rent.
He also proposed an increase in funds for the prevention of violence against and among young people