**Georgian Parliament Passes Amendments to Law on Grants**
The Georgian Dream (GD) parliament has adopted amendments to the country‘s Law on Grants. The changes were passed today, February 20, and will allow government-designated legal entities of public law (LEPLs) to issue grants.
**What are the Changes?**
According to the amendments, LEPs designated by the GD government can give grants to support public organizations. The government has allocated GEL 20 million (about USD 708,000) from the budget for these grants. The changes also grant heads of LEPs the right to issue both normative and individual administrative legal acts.
**Why were the Changes Made?**
The amendments are aimed at supporting civic initiatives, according to an official press release from the GD parliament. Earlier this month, Mamuka Mdinaradze, leader of the GD parliamentary majority, announced that civil organizations ready to support Georgian people would have the opportunity to receive grants from the government.
**Is the Parliament Legitimate?**
No, experts say the 11th convocation of the Georgian Parliament lacks legitimacy after the disputed October elections. Many opposition MPs have revoked their mandates or are boycotting parliamentary work.
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