Free prenatal courses and minimal VAT on baby food promised by the government

The new government’s program promises free access to preparation courses for childbirth, maternity and paternity in medical centers and allows VAT on baby food to be reduced to the minimum rate.

Sharing 100% of the supplements prescribed during pregnancy (folic acid and potassium iodide), speeding up the adoption process, reducing bureaucracy and supporting families in adopting children are also measures included in Luis Montenegro’s executive program.

The executive branch intends to make demography “a priority on the political agenda” and define a National Fertility and Longevity Strategy, according to a document presented today to the Assembly of the Republic.

As part of the support for young people, it is planned to abolish council tax on onerous property transfers (BTI) and stamp duty on the purchase of own and permanent homes by young people under the age of 35, as well as a government guarantee that allows a bank to finance the entire purchase price of a first home.

The creation of a national program to attract young Portuguese who have left the country in recent years is also being considered.

Another goal identified in the program is the creation of a national plan to support “all young people with disabilities” in the transition from school to the labor market, including vocationalization and support for the young person and his family at this stage.

The Government’s Democratic Alliance (AD) program was approved today by the Council of Ministers ahead of two days of debate in Parliament on Thursday and Friday.

Presidential Minister Antonio Leitan Amaro said the document is based on the AD’s electoral program, but includes more than 60 measures that coincide with those of other parties.