German cabinet approves reforms on police, hospitals and social contributions
The German cabinet deliberated on Wednesday on modernizing the Federal Police Act, which among other things strengthens drone defense. Changes to hospital reform and higher social contributions for high earners were also approved. Stricter rules for medical cannabis are in focus as well.
The German cabinet met on Wednesday in Berlin and decided on several important legislative drafts. The central topic was the reform of the 30-year-old Federal Police Act, initiated by Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU). This significantly expands the powers of the Federal Police to respond to technological developments and security challenges.
A new paragraph regulates drone defense: «To avert a danger posed by unmanned vehicle systems [...], the Federal Police may use appropriate technical means if averting the danger by other measures is hopeless or significantly impeded.» The justification emphasizes protection for airports, rail infrastructure, and ships. Dobrindt also announced a drone defense unit and center. The Federal Police may now use their own drones as «mobile sensor carriers,» for example at demonstrations.
Further innovations include phone tapping, collection of location data to prevent extremist entries, and automatic transmission of passenger data from non-Schengen flights. A new «residence ban» for up to three months will restrict violent individuals, such as soccer fans. The police gain more rights in arresting those subject to deportation and random knife checks at train stations.
In addition, the cabinet approved the draft by Federal Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) on hospital reform. This postpones full effectiveness to 2030, grants smaller clinics exceptions from quality and staffing requirements, and has the federal government take over the health insurers' share in the transformation fund.
Federal Labor Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD) introduced a regulation to raise contribution assessment limits: In pension insurance, it increases by 400 euros to 8,450 euros monthly; in health insurance, by 300 euros to 5,812.50 euros. High earners must pay higher contributions from 2026.
Finally, stricter rules for medical cannabis operations were approved, as imports have risen «beyond the expected level.» An amendment to the Air Security Act enables the Bundeswehr to provide assistance with high-altitude drones.