CDU and SPD strengthen police: New laws hit the economy hard!

CDU and SPD strengthen police: New laws hit the economy hard!

On June 24, 2025, the coalition of CDU and SPD in the Berlin House of Representatives made far-reaching decisions that both strengthen the police and have an impact on the economy. As part of these resolutions, the General Security and Order Act (ASOG) will be amended, giving the police expanded powers. Key changes include allowing decryption of encrypted communications in cases of serious crime and video surveillance in dangerous locations to increase security in the capital.

A central point is the extended storage of video images from public transport from previously 48 to now 72 hours. In addition, a “final rescue shot” is permitted by law under certain conditions. Health and social issues are also addressed: Men who perpetrate domestic violence against women can be shackled and banned from entering the home for up to 28 days. This is intended to improve the protection of women and victims of domestic violence in particular, according to the politicians in the coalition.

Economic policy burdens

Parallel to the security policy measures, the new economic policy is proving to be burdensome for companies. A minimum wage for public contracts will be introduced, which must be 1.50 euros above the national minimum wage. A compulsory levy is also planned for companies that do not offer enough training places. Another point is the controversial “Society Framework Act”, which provides for regulations for expropriations and price fixing by the Senate.

The President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), Sebastian Stietzel, expresses concerns and explains: “The Berlin economy has been in economic trough for three years, and any further burdens are poison.” Alexander Schirp from the Berlin-Brandenburg business associations also demands that the state intervene less and reduce bureaucracy.

Planned legislation and reactions

Last weekend, the leaders of the black-red coalition agreed on a timetable for the upcoming changes to the law. Among other things, laws on the budget, the socialization framework law and the training place levy are planned. The first reading of the amendment is scheduled to take place in the state parliament on July 10th. These extensive measures are the result of a compromise, with the CDU placing a focus on security while the SPD increases economic intervention.

In addition to the change in the ASOG, a new online search will be permitted and video surveillance will be introduced in crime-prone locations such as Görlitzer Park and Kottbusser Tor. A funding budget of two million euros for video surveillance is available in the new budget, with four of seven selected locations initially to be equipped. Furthermore, source telecommunications monitoring for eavesdropping on encrypted communications is introduced.

With these measures, Berlin politicians are responding to rising crime rates and trying to better protect residents. The planned laws could fundamentally change both security policy and economic aspects in the long term.

The comprehensive information on these developments comes from the reports of Picture and Daily Mirror.