The chairwoman of the parliamentary social committee, Denitsa Sacheva, announced her intention to introduce legislative changes that will extend the right to flexible working hours for parents of students aged 8 to 12 during the summer vacation. This initiative was presented through the social network Facebook, where Sacheva sought feedback from the public.
The proposed amendments will allow parents of children in this age group to request in writing from their employers temporary changes in the duration and distribution of their working hours, transition to remote work, or other modifications to the employment relationship. The aim is to facilitate the reconciliation of professional and family responsibilities.
Sacheva justifies her proposal as part of broader efforts to improve the demographic situation in the country. Currently, the Labor Code provides similar rights only to parents of children up to 8 years of age, leaving many families without support during the summer months.
"Like many mothers, I spend the vacation looking after my child. I have the invaluable help of my mother, but I still know how difficult it is. Moreover, many grandmothers also work and cannot help constantly", Sacheva shares in her post.
She emphasizes that many parents have turned to her and to the Minister of Education and Science Krasimir Valchev, expressing their difficulties with childcare during the summer. This has led to the realization of the need for legislative changes to address this problem.
The chairwoman of the social committee plans to officially submit the proposal for changes at the beginning of September. Meanwhile, she is actively seeking citizens' opinions on the initiative, asking if they approve of it and what additions or amendments they would suggest.
This step reflects the growing recognition of the challenges faced by working parents, especially during the summer months when schools are closed. Sacheva's initiative aims to create a more favorable environment for balancing professional and family life, which could have a positive impact on demographic trends and the quality of life of Bulgarian families.