Cyprus parliament passes disability reform legislation

The House of Representatives in Cyprus has unanimously approved a package of five bills to modernize the legislative framework for people with disabilities. The new law establishes a unified system of benefits and independent living services, decoupling support from income criteria to expand eligibility. Key services introduced or expanded include early family support advisors, personal work assistants, interpreters, and psychologists. The legislation clarifies that benefits begin from the date of application submission rather than the date of assessment. Furthermore, it prohibits the Council of Ministers from reducing benefits without parliamentary approval and ensures individuals over 65 maintain their current support. Previous specific schemes for mobility, visual impairment, and parking permits are now integrated into this unified framework. Lawmakers noted that the implementation of these benefits will occur gradually in accordance with government planning.