Cartoons and Nomads: What Laws Come into Effect in May

      Support for Families and Nomads

      One of the key changes will be the easing of requirements for large families receiving monthly child benefits. Starting from May 22, payments will continue even if the per capita income of the family exceeds the regional subsistence minimum — but by no more than 10%. Moreover, there is no need to recalculate anything: the rule will automatically apply to all recipients starting January 2026.

      Additionally, from May 1, the accounting rules for indigenous small-numbered peoples leading a nomadic lifestyle will be clarified. The government will approve a procedure by which such citizens can confirm their status for registration.

      Benefits for Participants of the Special Military Operation and Disabled Individuals

      Two support measures came into effect on April 25 but continue to operate in May. Widows and widowers of deceased participants of the Special Military Operation (if they have not remarried) have gained the right to free education in universities under a separate quota for bachelor's and specialist degrees.

      The state will also cover travel expenses to and from the treatment location for two relatives of a seriously injured or seriously ill Rosgvardiya employee. Starting May 6, a norm protecting the incomes of disabled individuals and veterans will come into effect: bailiffs will no longer be able to deduct compensation for prosthetics purchased before January 1, 2025, rehabilitation equipment, travel expenses to obtain them, and even the maintenance of guide dogs to settle debts.

      Cinema and Education

      From May 6, the state will have the right to fully finance the production and distribution of domestic animated films for children and youth. It is expected that this will boost the development of Russian animation studios.

      Starting May 28, driving schools will begin operating under new rules. A clear list of indicators and criteria will be introduced to evaluate the effectiveness of their driver training programs. The authors of the law hope that this will improve the quality of education and ultimately reduce road accidents.

      Judicial System

      Starting May 10, the hierarchy of courts will be clarified: the supreme courts of republics, territorial, regional, and other regional courts will officially become higher instances in relation to justices of the peace in their territory. They will also consider some cases as a cassation instance.