Finnish lawmakers OK boosting euro bailout fund

HELSINKI — The Finnish Parliament has approved expanding the eurozone’s bailout fund’s powers and increasing Finland’s share to (euro) 14 billion ($19 billion).

Lawmakers voted 103-66 in favor of the government motion with 31 absent or abstaining.

Tuesday’s approval was expected as the six-party government has a majority in the 200-member Parliament, with 126 seats.

Finland is part of the 17-nation eurozone and its approval is required on bailouts and other help for cash-strapped eurozone members. Under the new law, the bailout fund will be able to buy government bonds and lend money to a country before it is in a full-blown crisis.