All New Zealanders, including those with disabilities, have a responsibility to obey the laws of the land and pay their debts. However, any person who is struggling to find the means to live at a decent level, deserves compassionate consideration. People of all ages with disabilities absolutely deserve protection from the seizure of goods essential to their care, support and independence.
We consider the proposed amendment bill addresses a gap in the legislation that unfairly impacts on people with disabilities who require mobility devices and other specialised equipment to live independently and to access medical and other services they require.
The real life stories shared in the First Reading of the Bill, demonstrate the necessity and importance of making this exemption a legal provision, rather than a discretionary option that will be variably applied.