Russian Government Backs Bill Giving Returning SVO Veterans Priority in Staff Reductions

Overview

• The cabinet supported the draft without additional comments, clearing it for State Duma consideration.
• The proposal amends Article 179 of the Labor Code to grant a preferential right to keep a job during staff cuts when qualifications and performance are equal.
• The measure applies to those who took part in combat during periods of mobilization, martial law or wartime.
• If adopted in its current wording, the law could take effect on September 1, 2026.
• The bill was introduced by deputies Yaroslav Nilov, Anna Kuznetsova and Yana Lantratova, who frame it as recognition and a reintegration aid given gaps in current protections.