Social Security (Youth Support and Work Focus) Amendment Bill
The Social Services Select Committee invites submissions on the Social Security (Youth Support and Work Focus) Amendment Bill. The proposed welfare changes are aimed at 16- and 17-year olds and 16-18-year old parents, plus people currently on DPB, Widow’s Benefit or Women Alone Benefit. Summarised information on the proposed welfare changes can be found in this press release from Social Development Minister Paula Bennett. 

The closing date for submissions is Friday, 13 April 2012. Information on how to make a submission to a Parliamentary Select Committee is on the NZ Parliament website. (PDF 124k).

Interestingly a government tender has already been announced for third party providers to deliver new Welfare Reform Youth Services. Read about it here.

Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Bill
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs invites submissions on the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Amendment Bill Exposure Draft and the consultation questions. Submissions close Friday 11 May 2012. You can This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it your submission or send to Consumer Policy, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, PO BOX 1473, Wellington.

Among the proposed changes, the bill would make it illegal to lend someone money whose loan repayments would be likely to result in substantial hardship. The legislation would also require complete disclosure of loan terms and extending the period during which borrowers can cancel their loan.