Knesset Legal Adviser Sagit Afik warned Tuesday that if the Basic Law: Torah Study passes, it could legally obligate granting Torah learners benefits currently reserved for combat soldiers. The opinion introduces a formal legal objection as the bill advances through the legislative process.
Knesset Legal Adviser Sagit Afik issued a formal opinion Tuesday stating that if the Basic Law: Torah Study passes, it may legally compel granting Torah learners benefits that are currently unique to combat soldiers. The warning, reported by journalist Amit Segal (N12), introduces a new front in the ongoing legislative debate.
The opinion follows months of controversy over the proposed Basic Law. As The Zioneer has reported, Housing Ministry legal counsel Efrat Procaccia determined in early July that the law could enable prioritizing Torah learners in subsidized housing lotteries over IDF veterans. MK Naama Lazimi (The Democrats) called the bill a "reward for draft-dodgers" during its first Knesset reading.
The bill's advocates argue it constitutionally enshrines Torah study as a national value equal to military service. Opponents, including military leaders, contend it undermines the principle that those who serve should receive priority. The legal adviser's latest opinion sharpens the conflict over which benefits—including housing, income supplements, and other state incentives—could be upended by the legislation if passed.
2 developments
- DevelopingNational Insurance rep: Basic Law: Torah Study would cancel discount revocation, expand eligibility
- StrongKnesset legal adviser: Basic Law Torah Study initiators failed to clarify its practical weight
- DevelopingProposed Basic Law equating Torah study with national service draws fire from allies
- DevelopingHousing Ministry legal counsel: Torah Study Basic Law would allow prioritizing yeshiva students in housing lotteries over IDF veterans
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