New Year’s Eve is over, but the hangover from that long night is still giving us a bit of a headache. And yet, the new year 2012 is moving forward at a brisk pace. With the turn of the year, lawmakers are once again presenting us with numerous new regulations and changes in the areas of family, finance, consumer protection, labor, and social affairs. And these are by no means all the issues that will change with regard to the legal landscape as of January 2012. Austrian consumers must prepare for a wealth of new regulations and adjustments. The sooner they inform themselves, the more secure they can be. Especially when it comes to grants and subsidies, up-to-the-minute information can even be worth real money when income limits shift and more.
Quota for Women in the Public Sector
In the public sector, the quota underlying the requirement to promote women will be increased from 45% to 50% effective January 1, 2012.
Tax Deductibility of Contributions to Churches and Religious Organizations Has Been Increased!
Mandatory contributions to churches and other religious organizations are tax-deductible up to €400 for the 2012 tax year.
Higher Cigarette Prices Starting in January 2012
With the third phase of the tobacco tax increase, which takes effect on January 1, 2012, smokers can expect another rise in cigarette prices, following the previous increases in January and July 2011.
More Protection for Babies and Toddlers in 2012 as Well
As of February 1, 2012, bisphenol A may no longer be present in pacifiers and teething rings.
Emergency Lanes to Be Implemented on Austrian Roads Starting January 1, 2012
Just like our European neighbors, starting in the new year, it will be mandatory on Austria’s roads to form an emergency lane when traffic comes to a standstill. This is intended to ensure that emergency vehicles can reach the scene of an accident more quickly and thus save even more lives. As soon as a traffic jam forms, drivers must pull over to the right and left sides of the road. Failure to form an emergency lane—or even driving through the cleared space—will result in hefty fines of up to €2,180. Starting in January 2012, we will help accident victims by forming an emergency lane on Austria’s roads as well.
For more information: HELP.gv.at
Changes for Consumers in Germany in 2012
In our neighboring country, Germany, the new year 2012 is also bringing a host of changes. Virtually all areas are affected, including retirement planning, housing, and cars, as well as employment and social welfare. For example, the standard benefit rates for Hartz IV have been adjusted. The short-time work allowance, which was introduced in 2011 due to the economic crisis, will end in 2012. The process of filing tax returns in Germany will be simplified once again this year. Effective immediately, a flat-rate deduction for income-related expenses of €1,000 (previously €920) applies, eliminating the need for itemized documentation. In the future, only the total amount needs to be reported. These and many other changes are on the horizon for consumers and German citizens starting in January 2012. That’s why it’s best to get informed now and possibly even save some money. After all, ignorance is no defense against penalties.
