The bill put forward by MR federal MP Florence Reuter, which aims to adapt bereavement leave in cases of scheduled euthanasia, has just been adopted unanimously, in second reading, by the Chamber's Social Affairs Committee.
“Today, the committee unanimously recognised the need to adapt the law to the reality experienced by families. At such a painful time, no one should have to choose between their job and being present for a loved one,” said Florence Reuter, welcoming the vote.
As a reminder, the text addresses a human reality too long ignored by the current legal framework: when the date of the euthanasia is known in advance, relatives must be able to make themselves available beforehand, to accompany their parent, spouse or partner in their final days.
At present, special leave linked to a death can only be taken from the day of death itself. This rule does not match the specific situation of scheduled euthanasia, where the date is set in advance and often requires relatives to be present more in the preceding days.
Florence Reuter's proposal does not create additional leave days. It brings more flexibility by allowing relatives to take their special leave as soon as the date of the euthanasia is set.
“There are the administrative steps, the decisions to be made, but above all what matters most: the time devoted to one's loved one,” the MR federal MP stressed. “A son, a daughter, a partner must be able to be there before, during and after this final moment. It is a matter of dignity, freedom and respect for families.”
The National Labour Council had already issued a unanimous positive opinion on the text, recognising the need to offer a more flexible and humane response to relatives facing scheduled euthanasia.
“This unanimity shows that this proposal transcends political divides. It responds to a concrete and legitimate need: to enable more dignified, humane and tailored support for families, while preserving the balance of the current system of special leave,” concluded Florence Reuter.
The final vote will take place in plenary session in the coming weeks.