The government can declare a state of emergency without Knesset approval • Validity of restrictions on businesses and activities: 28 days • "The Great Corona Law" - what it means and how it may affect our lives

• Constitution Committee

  Photo: 

  Adina Wallman / Knesset Spokeswoman - Archive

For the first time, we have enshrined in one law all the provisions and guidelines related to the declaration of a state of emergency due to the corona virus. The law specifies the powers of the government, as well as all the provisions related to the enactment of emergency regulations. "Israel Today" makes you order.

The Constitution Committee approved the "Great Corona Law" // Photo: Adina Wallman / Knesset Spokeswoman

How have the powers been exercised so far?

They were operated in accordance with the State Emergency Protection Regulations, which gave the government the authority to carry out actions without the supervision and control of the Knesset.

Can the government declare a state of emergency in the economy?

It will be able to do so if it is convinced that "there is a real risk of widespread corona spread and significant harm to public health."

 Will the restrictions that will be decided to be imposed on businesses and activities be limited in time?

Yes. Restrictions on businesses, workplaces, events, educational institutions and public transportation will expire at the end of 28 days. In the case of regulations restricting activity in the private space, their validity shall not exceed two weeks. 

מהHow long may the state of emergency in the economy last?

The government may extend the state of emergency for a period not exceeding 60 days until the end of the temporary order on June 30, 2021. 

Can the government ban protests?

The government may install regulations restricting events which, by their nature, are characterized by a large number of participants, provided that it is convinced that there are circumstances in which restrictions on gathering and keeping distance between people are insufficient. 

 Does the law infringe on the powers of the Knesset?

Definitely. The role of the Knesset as a legislature is to criticize and supervise the government, which cannot approve laws without its approval. It is now stipulated that the regulations will require the prior approval of the Constitution Committee. However, if the committee has not made a decision within 24 hours, the regulations will enter into force. If no decision is made, regulations will be brought to the Knesset for approval. 

Does the new law empty the powers of the Corona Commission?

for sure. The Corona Commission was set up to discuss government decisions related to restrictions on private and public space. The committee's chairman, MK Shasha-Biton, did not succumb to pressure and showed courage in defending the Knesset. The law now stipulates that the state of emergency and the enactment of regulations regarding the restriction of public and private space will be submitted to the Constitution Committee, and other regulations will be submitted to the Education, Labor or any committee to be determined by the Knesset Committee.