Laws implementing mini-indexation of pensions, combating spam, and mandatory compliance with the GOST standard for school backpacks have taken effect starting from August.
As we approach August 1, 2024, several significant changes are set to take effect in Russia. Here's a rundown of the key updates that will impact various sectors of society.
Pension Changes for Working Pensioners
By law, a working pensioner can earn a maximum of three pension points in a year. To qualify for these points, a working pensioner's monthly salary must be at least 55,600 rubles. As of August 1st, the maximum increase in pension for a working pensioner is 437 rubles (one point is currently worth 145.7 rubles). This means that about one in five pensioners in the country will receive an increase.
It's important to note that the exact parameters of the new pension point rules for working pensioners, including salary requirements, maximum points, and the rate of increase, are not detailed in the available search results.
Vehicle Scrap Collection Fees
Starting August 1st, new rules for paying vehicle scrap collection fees come into effect, affecting trucks, vans, and imported vehicles from EAEU countries. For engines with a capacity of 1-2 liters, the fee will be 667,400 rubles, compared to preferential rates of 3,400 - 5,200 rubles. For engines with a capacity of 2-3 liters, the fee will be 1,875,400 rubles, and for electric vehicles and hybrids, the fee will be 674,000 rubles.
Banking and Mobile Operators
From August 1st, minors aged 14 to 18 cannot open a bank account without parental consent, unless they have full legal capacity. Starting September 1st, operators will not be allowed to make unwanted calls without the subscriber's consent. Russians can also opt out of mass SMS messages through the personal cabinet on their mobile operator's website or mobile app.
Safety Standards for Children's Toys and School Equipment
Starting August 1st, a new state standard for the classification and safety requirements of children's toys is being introduced. Similarly, new GOST standards are being introduced for school backpacks, rucksacks, and briefcases, including weight limits, material safety, and functionality requirements.
Indexing of Pensions for Working Pensioners
Starting January 1, 2025, working pensioners will once again have their pensions indexed to the previous year's inflation rate. This marks a return to regular pension adjustments, as it has been several years since working pensioners had their payments indexed, with the last adjustment happening in 2016. Upon leaving their job, working pensioners would receive all the missed indexations, causing their pension to significantly increase.
New Service for Reporting Unwanted Phone Spam
Lastly, a new service for reporting unwanted phone spam is expected to be launched on the Gosuslugi website, providing Russians with another tool to manage their digital communications more effectively.
These changes highlight the ongoing efforts to improve various aspects of life in Russia, from pension adjustments to digital communications and safety standards for children's toys and school equipment. Stay tuned for more updates as these changes are implemented.
- The changes in Russia, effective from August 1, 2024, also bring alterations to the finance sector, as new fees for vehicle scrap collection will impact truck, van, and imported EAEU vehicle owners.
- Additionally, in the realm of education-and-self-development and general-news, a new state standard for the classification and safety requirements of children's toys is being introduced, along with GOST standards for school backpacks, rucksacks, and briefcases, aiming to ensure safety and functionality.
