In a move that seeks to calm spirits after the announcement of the new minimum wage, the National Government has ready the draft of a decree that would give a final blow to the special service bonus that congressmen receive. This measure, which would affect the income of those who arrive at the Capitol in the next legislature, aims to eliminate a benefit that today exceeds 16 million pesos per month.

What does the “snip” consist of?

The Ministry of Finance argues that maintaining this premium is “disproportionate” compared to the economic reality of Colombia and the objectives of closing gaps of the National Development Plan.

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The amount at stake: Currently, the special premium amounts to $16,914,540.

Who does it apply to?: The decree would repeal the benefit for parliamentarians who take office on or after July 20, 2026.

The savings: It is estimated that, if it comes into effect, the monthly salary of legislators would have a real reduction of about 11 million net pesos, after the law’s discounts.

A historical debt with austerity

The premium in question was created in 2013 to replace other benefits (housing, health and location) that had been overturned by justice. However, for the current Executive, this emolument no longer has technical or social justification.

While Congress reacts with discomfort, pointing out that its monthly withholdings are already around 20 million pesos, citizen sectors and political figures such as former mayor Claudia López have already described the intention as “a good decision” in favor of equity.