Bolojan: CASS contribution for pensions over 3,000 RON remains in force

Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan was asked, in an interview with Digi 24, whether extending the CASS contribution for pensions represents a budgetary measure designed to provide additional funding for public sector employees' salaries. The question comes in the context of discontent expressed by trade unionists in the healthcare sector and other fields, who argue that the new pay scales set out in the draft salary legislation will reduce their income.

The discussion about extending the period during which pensioners pay CASS emerged publicly after a European Commission expert reportedly proposed this option. However, the interim Minister of Labour, Dragoș Pîslaru, clarified that Romania is not obliged to adopt this fiscal policy.

When asked about the matter, Ilie Bolojan stated that the measures adopted last year must be maintained: "You cannot cancel the contributions of people, of citizens, who need these services to a greater extent. Throughout Europe and everywhere else, every citizen contributes according to their income. (...) It must be kept so that the money remains within the healthcare system, because otherwise Healthcare has to receive money from the state budget, as it cannot function in a balanced way", the Prime Minister said.

What the measure entails

From 1 August last year, pensioners with incomes exceeding 3,000 RON pay a CASS contribution of 10% on the difference between their gross income and the 3,000 RON threshold. The measure is valid until 31 December 2027.