Germany's lower house of parliament, the Bundestag, has approved a package of measures aimed at cutting healthcare costs in the country. The bill, which seeks to save €16.3 billion ($18.63 billion), will now be sent to the Bundesrat, the upper house representing Germany's 16 federal states. If it fails to secure a majority there, it could be referred to a mediation committee.
The cost-cutting package, set to take effect from the 2027 budget, will affect doctors' practices, hospitals, pharmacies, and the pharmaceutical industry. It includes higher co-payments for prescription drugs and tighter rules on free co-insurance for spouses under Germany's statutory health insurance system. Attempts to delay the vote through emergency applications to the Constitutional Court were rejected.
Protests against the measures have already taken place across Germany, and the package's approval is expected to trigger further demonstrations in the coming weeks. Healthcare workers have also voiced opposition to the cuts.
The Bundestag also introduced a new law aimed at making it easier for victims of e-scooter accidents to receive compensation. The legislation imposes stricter liability on e-scooter rental firms regardless of fault. Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig stated, "Anyone who makes money renting out e-scooters must also take responsibility for the damage caused by their vehicles." This comes as e-scooter-related accidents rose from about 5,900 in 2020 to 12,500 in 2024.
Germany's annual inflation rate dropped to 2.3% in June, according to official data. The decline was partly due to lower oil prices resulting from the US-Iran agreement and the government's temporary fuel tax rebate. In comparison, inflation was 2.6% in May and 2.9% in April. Household energy and fuel costs were 3.4% higher than in June last year.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul will meet his Slovenian counterpart Tone Kajzer in Berlin. According to the Slovenian foreign ministry, they are expected to discuss "topical European issues" before holding a joint press conference. This is Kajzer's first foreign visit since taking office after Slovenia's May elections.
In Stuttgart, a 12-year-old girl helped police arrest a man who sexually harassed her. The 44-year-old man kissed the girl on the cheek and offered her money for a sexual act. The girl offered to exchange numbers, then immediately went to police and assisted in his arrest.
Source: www.dw.com