Amman: The Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan, convened on Saturday to approve a series of critical decisions and draft laws that align with the Economic Modernization Vision (EMV) and Social Protection objectives.
According to Jordan News Agency, the Cabinet endorsed draft amendments to the Social Security Law for 2024, which are now poised for legislative procedures in Parliament. Notable amendments include an extension of maternity leave from 70 to 90 days, a move aimed at enhancing women’s economic participation in line with the EMV. Additionally, the amendments adapt to emerging work models by expanding social security coverage and allow non-Jordanians with a requisite number of mandatory contributions to opt for voluntary social security coverage. Unemployment insurance reorganization and measures promoting gender equality, such as enabling widowed men to receive pensions without conditions, were also approved.
Further, the Cabinet sanctioned an amended Financing Companies R
egulation for 2024, bestowing oversight authority on the Central Bank of Jordan. This regulation aims to bolster governance and protect consumers from unethical lending practices while promoting responsible financing and enhancing sector competitiveness.
In a bid to assist low-income families, the Cabinet approved winter assistance for families benefiting from existing aid programs under the National Aid Fund. This initiative, costing approximately JD4.5 million, will aid 235,000 families in managing winter-related expenses.
The Cabinet also adopted policies to bolster the participation of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), women, youth, and persons with disabilities in government procurement for 2024. This includes offering preferential treatment in government tenders and integrating these policies into the Jordanian e-procurement system. A committee led by the Assistant Secretary-General of the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Supply for Technical Affairs will oversee the implementation, set to
commence six months from the decision date.
These decisions underscore the government’s dedication to reforms that foster sustainable development and enhance public service delivery, in alignment with the EMV and social protection goals.