Romanian Senate passes mandatory school uniform bill

The Romanian Senate has passed a legislative proposal to make school uniforms mandatory in pre-university education. The bill passed with 84 votes in favor, 18 against, and four abstentions. The measure will now move to the Chamber of Deputies for a decisive vote.

Under the proposed law, individual schools will determine the specific models, technical standards, and components of the uniforms, subject to the approval of their respective parent councils. Schools are prohibited from mandating other clothing or accessories beyond the uniform and a school name badge.

Proponents, including members of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), argue the measure promotes equality, safety, and social cohesion while reducing bullying related to clothing. To prevent financial hardship, the bill includes provisions for subsidies or free uniforms for low-income and single-parent families, funded by local and county councils or non-reimbursable external funds.

Critics, such as the USR party, have expressed concerns regarding the necessity of the law and the potential financial burden on families, suggesting that existing regulations could suffice. Some reports highlight that for families in disadvantaged or rural areas, even subsidized costs could pose a significant challenge.