Senate to Consider Tax Relief for Parents with Disabled Children

Nominated Senator Proposes Tax Relief Bill to Support Parents of Children with Disabilities

In a recent press briefing at Makupa Primary School in Mvita Sub-County, Nominated Senator Crystal Asige emphasized the importance of enacting the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Bill, 2023, which she has sponsored. This bill, once passed by the Senate and signed into law, promises tax relief for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities, providing much-needed support to families facing financial burdens.

Senator Asige, who champions the Ability Programme aimed at empowering parents of children with disabilities, distributed cooking items worth Ksh 120,000 to such families during the event. She reiterated her commitment to regularly visiting all six wards in Mombasa to extend assistance and encouragement.

The proposed bill seeks to grant income tax relief of up to Ksh 150,000 to parents and caregivers, acknowledging their significant contributions to the well-being and education of children with disabilities. Senator Asige, drawing from her own experiences as a disabled individual, highlighted the often-overlooked challenges faced by caregivers and stressed the importance of their inclusion in tax relief provisions.

Additionally, Senator Asige addressed accessibility issues encountered by Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWD), particularly in accessing government buildings. Collaborating with the Mombasa County Disability Leaders Forum and the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), efforts are underway to assess and renovate buildings to ensure accessibility for PLWDs.

Beyond tax relief, Senator Asige is actively involved in advocating for the incorporation of sign language into the national education curriculum through the Kenya Sign Language bill. She also seeks the Ministry of Health’s support in sensitizing families on caring for children with disabilities.

The initiative received praise from parents like Christine Mungai and Abdalla Shaaban, who emphasized the importance of not hiding children with disabilities and urged for community sensitization to combat discrimination.

Source:KBC