Legislative Package Against Radical Islam Passed in Lower Austria

The Lower Austrian state parliament passed a legislative package against radical Islam in its session on Wednesday. ÖVP, FPÖ and SPÖ voted in favor. A separate vote was held on the changes in kindergartens, which were also supported by the Greens and NEOS.

Package Against Radical Islam in Lower Austria with Veil Ban in State Service

The obligation of kindergarten children's guardians to cooperate will be expanded from September 1. In the case of repeated violations - for example, if the mandatory parent-teacher meeting is refused - fines of up to 2,500 euros may be imposed. Additionally, kindergarten operators can issue house rules in the future. Part of the legislative package is also a veil ban in state service. In the state constitution, democratic values as well as traditions and customs are added to the existing target provisions.

Ultimately, the SPÖ also agreed to the changes after, according to their own statements, they "struggled for new formulations" with the ÖVP until the end in connection with the changes in the state constitution. "A society that is tolerant must show a sharp edge against all intolerants," emphasized SPÖ state party leader State Councilor Sven Hergovich in a statement. The NEOS, on the other hand, saw "show politics," while the Greens believe the changes - except for those regarding kindergartens - "miss the reality." A supplementary motion was also passed, in which the federal government is among other things called upon to enact a constitutional law with a headscarf ban for girls under 14 years and a stronger obligation for parental involvement in the school sector as well.

New Construction of Wiener Neustadt Hospital Agenda Item

Also on the agenda was the new construction of the Wiener Neustadt hospital. Compared to the first decision in 2019, when 562 million euros were estimated, the planned investments have risen to 1.47 billion euros. The increase in construction costs and additional functions of the hospital were cited as reasons.

According to the health plan, the hospital is to function alongside St. Pölten as one of two central clinics in Lower Austria in the future. An opening was originally planned for 2028, but now it is expected to be no earlier than 2034/35. The NEOS saw a "cost explosion" and a "planning disaster." The Greens want another alternative site review.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.