Recap of House of Representatives Debate on WTTA

House of Representatives Critical of WTTA: Support With Reservations

On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the Dutch House of Representatives held an in-depth debate on the Law on the Admission for the Provision of Temporary Workers (WTTA).

The debate highlighted the complexity of introducing an admission system for labor intermediaries. While the goals of the law are widely supported, concerns remain regarding its feasibility, administrative burden, and legal certainty. Companies falling under the Waadi must be aware of these developments and the potential impact on their operations.

Support for WTTA, but Concerns About Implementation The House of Representatives broadly supports the WTTA but expressed several reservations about its implementation. During the debate with Minister Van Hijum (Social Affairs and Employment), concerns were raised regarding enforcement, legal certainty, and rising costs.

One key point of discussion was the potential for a sector-wide employment ban in the case of persistent violations. Some parties support such a measure, while the minister believes this would be premature and prefers to wait for further research. The legal protection of legitimate staffing agencies also sparked debate. The VVD argued that the lack of a suspensive effect during appeal procedures could lead to problems, while the minister warned that such a provision could be open to abuse.

Rising Costs and Limited Inspection Capacity Raise Concerns There was also criticism of the increasing costs of the admission system. The fees, initially estimated at €490, have now risen to a maximum of €2,800. Inspection capacity is also a concern. The minister acknowledged that not all companies can be inspected immediately and estimated that it will take another two years before inspections are fully operational. In the meantime, companies may continue to operate under certain conditions, such as holding an SNA certificate.

Doubts About the Law’s Effectiveness Some MPs questioned whether the law will truly help combat malpractice in the temporary employment sector. Alternative proposals, such as expanding the role of the Labor Inspectorate and increasing the use of blocked accounts (G-rekeningen), were suggested as potentially more effective measures. Nevertheless, the minister remains confident in the system, which combines public regulation with sector responsibility.

The debate is scheduled to continue on March 27.

Source: Flexnieuws

Normec VRO’s Position Normec VRO supports the introduction of the Law on the Admission for the Provision of Temporary Workers (WTTA), given its primary goal of improving worker protection and ensuring a level playing field in the sector. Combating rogue operators remains a key pillar. At the same time, we emphasize the importance of balanced enforcement to prevent legitimate companies from losing their approval over minor administrative issues.

“It is crucial to recognize that malpractice is not addressed solely by adding more standards to the regulatory framework. While such additions may be relevant, it is the synergy between multiple measures—combined with effective cooperation between public and private actors—that will truly make a difference,” says Julisa Fereijra-Phelipa, Business Unit Director at Normec VRO.

The wage ratio requirement is an example of a key element in the new WTTA framework. However, the Dutch Labor Inspectorate’s enforcement powers remain limited to the statutory minimum wage (WML), raising questions about the effectiveness of monitoring broader wage relationships.

Normec VRO remains committed to a solid and workable admission system that both protects against malpractice and prevents well-intentioned companies from being unnecessarily penalized by disproportionate regulation.