Russians will get a pleasant surprise on their cards for the holidays?

On the eve of the New Year, State Duma Deputy Speaker Boris Chernyshov proposed a one-time payment “New Year's Family Budget” in the amount of 10,000 rubles.

This proposal promises to help families with children and pensioners whose income is below the subsistence level, single parents and those in need of social protection. Chernyshov claims that unused budget funds for 2023 in the amount of 603.5 billion rubles can be used for this. He notes that preparing for the holidays in an inflationary environment is becoming a serious test for the poor.

However, the initiative raises questions. Firstly, it is unclear how the need of pensioners and families with children will be determined, and what the criteria are. A subjective approach and bureaucratic delays are possible. Secondly, it is unclear whether these funds…