The State Duma of the Russian Federation has rejected a proposed amendment aimed at abolishing transport taxes for disabled citizens, according to official legislative sources. The decision, communicated through the Duma’s website, marks a setback for advocates seeking broader tax relief for individuals with mobility impairments.
The draft bill first appeared at the end of 2019. It was sponsored by deputies aligned with the Fair Russia – For Truth faction. The proposal sought to modify Article 358 of the Tax Code by placing certain passenger vehicles on the list of non-taxable assets. Specifically, it contemplated exempting passenger cars with engines up to 100 horsepower from transport tax obligations. If enacted, a vehicle owner with a qualifying disability would not owe transport tax for such a vehicle.
Earlier reporting indicated that lawmakers from the LDPR faction, led by Leonid Slutsky, were developing a separate initiative to reduce transport taxes for preferential categories of citizens without regard to engine displacement. That approach would maintain reductions in every case, but the tax savings would be calculated based on the actual horsepower over the threshold used to grant the benefit, meaning taxpayers would pay tax only on the excess power beyond the permitted limit.
The discourse around these proposals also touched on road-use policies and the practical implications for persons who rely on mobility aids. In parallel coverage, Milonov, a former deputy, commented on other traffic-related matters such as parking regulations near bus stops, suggesting the no-parking zone be shortened to five meters to improve accessibility and safety for public transport users.
Ultimately, the legislative body did not advance the measure to relieve transport taxes for disabled drivers, prompting ongoing discussion about how best to balance fiscal policy with social protections. Stakeholders continue to monitor potential revisions and future drafts that would better align tax policy with the needs of people who depend on mobility devices and accessible transportation options.