YEREVAN. – We propose to extend for three more years a number of privileges given to the residents of border settlements. Sisak Gabrielyan, a member of the majority My Step faction in Armenia’s parliament, told journalists about this Tuesday.

Accordingly, it is proposed that the state reimburse 50 percent of the cost of electricity, natural gas, and irrigation water for about 36 settlements.

In addition, it is proposed that textbooks be provided free of charge, or at a 50-percent discount, to the schoolchildren of border settlements.

"In addition, we specify by the force of law that the state will completely restore the houses damaged by the shelling by Azerbaijan; naturally, we are talking about the houses where people live. We also specify by law that if the animals are injured or die as a result of hostilities, the state will provide compensation in this case as well. The draft proposes to completely exempt residents from land tax and property tax for another three years—until January 1, 2024.

If a resident of the border settlements is injured as a result of the adversary's actions and acquires a disability status, his medical care will not only be free, but that person will also receive 1-3 million drams in connection with the disability status. And if we have a casualty, the family will be provided with a lump sum of 5 million drams, as well as the state will reimburse the costs of burial and cemetery," said Gabrielyan, emphasizing that these privileges shall apply to the border communities in Ararat, Gegharkunik, Vayots Dzor, and Tavush Provinces.

The MP noted that in addition to these changes, they are looking for ways to fully reimburse tuition fees for university students and kindergartens of border villages.