(de-news.net) – In a move toward reducing administrative complexity, the German Federal Cabinet has approved eight draft laws designed to simplify bureaucratic procedures across various sectors. These legislative proposals mark the beginning of a broader effort to alleviate regulatory burdens for businesses and citizens alike. Among the key reforms are measures to reduce mandatory reporting obligations, enhance the digitalization of property law, and streamline occupational safety regulations. These changes are expected to improve efficiency and lower compliance costs.
Beyond the immediate legislative package, the Cabinet also agreed on 50 strategic guiding principles that will shape future lawmaking. These include proposals to accelerate the planning and approval processes for infrastructure projects, particularly in the transportation sector, which has long been hindered by lengthy administrative delays.
Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger (CDU) emphasized the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in improving the speed and effectiveness of administrative and approval procedures. Speaking ahead of the Cabinet meeting, Wildberger advocated for stronger European collaboration to address and reduce emerging bureaucratic pressures at the continental level. He expressed optimism that digital tools, including AI, could play a pivotal role in modernizing public administration.
A government spokesperson confirmed that the Cabinet’s agenda included a comprehensive review of previously implemented relief measures. In addition, the Cabinet session focused on further reductions in corporate reporting requirements and the expansion of digitalization initiatives. Minister Wildberger had actively sought input from his colleagues and believes that the cumulative effect of deregulation could result in savings amounting to several billion euros for both businesses and private individuals.
Labour Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD) had already announced plans to ease occupational safety regulations earlier in the week. During the Cabinet meeting, she proposed raising the threshold for mandatory safety officers in companies from 20 to 50 employees, thereby exempting smaller businesses from this obligation. This adjustment is intended to reduce administrative overhead for small enterprises. Bas also unveiled plans to modernize labor administration, including the creation of a digital agency dedicated to facilitating skilled labor immigration—a move aimed at making Germany’s workforce policies more agile and responsive to current needs.
The CDU/CSU and SPD coalition agreement outlines a clear target: to reduce the economic costs of bureaucracy. Savings are projected to amount to 16 billion euros by the end of the current legislative period.
