Law 39/2006 on the Promotion of personal autonomy and care for dependent people

Ley 39/2006, de Promoción de la Autonomía Personal y Atención a las personas en situación de dependencia

Spain's Law 39/2006, known as the Promotion of Personal Autonomy and Care for Dependent People Act, aims to ensure equal rights for citizens requiring assistance with daily life activities due to dependency. The law's objectives are to provide a framework for promoting personal autonomy and offering care services, addressing the needs of dependent individuals. It establishes the System for Autonomy and Care for Dependency (SAAD), involving all public administrations, with the General State Administration guaranteeing a uniform set of rights nationwide. The institutions involved include the Autonomous Communities responsible for managing and providing services, and the General State Administration overseeing funding, information systems, quality standards, and professional training. The scope covers all Spanish citizens, with specific benefits like prevention, telecare, home help, and residential care. Key features include defining dependency levels, a catalogue of benefits, and the rights and obligations of beneficiaries. Implementation involves a gradual rollout based on dependency degree and resource availability, with consultative bodies like the Territorial Council ensuring system coordination. The law has been in effect since January 1, 2007.