Nawrocki Readies Veto on Next-of-Kin Bill Amid Final Talks

Karol Nawrocki is set to meet with PSL MP Urszula Pasławska at the Presidential Palace this Wednesday at 4:30 PM to discuss the fate of the coalition’s critical next-of-kin legislation.

The Last-Chance Meeting

Journalists have dubbed the upcoming session a “last-chance meeting” as the final decision on the government coalition’s key bill rests upon it. Urszula Pasławska noted that Nawrocki’s immediate circle remains significantly more critical of the proposed regulations than the president himself.

Pasławska stated that while she hopes for a constructive discussion, she remains aware of the political realities surrounding the legislative process. She emphasized the necessity of a dialogue before the final outcome is decided.

Scope of the Proposed Legislation

Drafted by PSL and Left-wing politicians, the bill allows two individuals to sign a civil law agreement before a notary. This grants them access to medical information, the right to make burial decisions, eligibility for survivor’s pensions, and the ability to file joint tax returns.

Furthermore, the regulation facilitates inheritance tax exemptions, testamentary succession, mutual maintenance obligations, and housing rights. Such agreements would be formally registered with the Civil Registry Office.

Legislative Status and Political Resistance

Having passed the Senate last week after clearing the Sejm in late May, the bill aims to provide legal recognition to couples who share lives and raise children. Minister Katarzyna Kotula has urged the president to support the measure, arguing that the state must acknowledge these families.

Conversely, presidential chief of staff Paweł Szefernaker has dismissed the bill, claiming it functions as a back-door method to legalize civil partnerships. He reaffirmed that the president does not intend to consent to the legalization of such unions.