- Legislative assembly deliberates on budget allocations forsecurity forces and law enforcement agencies.
After the suspected terror attack in Solingen with three fatalities caused by an individual suspected of having Islamic extremist motives, the Hessian state parliament in Wiesbaden is discussing today (9:00 AM) the enhancement of interior security in Hesse. In a joint proposal by the ruling factions of CDU and SPD, it's mentioned that "Islamist-inspired actions regrettably are no longer sporadic incidents. As a constitutional state, we have to firmly oppose this." This includes the expansion of the powers of security authorities and strengthening gun regulations. It's also emphasized that "individuals should not be profiled solely based on their origin."
CDU and SPD factions also aim to raise the allowances for police officers, firefighters, and prison guards in Hesse by 160 euros monthly. At present, the allowance for Hessian police officers is approximately 130 euros, which is lower than some other federal states. This could potentially lure Hessian state police officials to other states.
Additionally, a committee of inquiry for the involvement of young citizens in democracy is to be formally established by the state parliament. This includes considering their interests more in hearings for new laws. According to the coalition agreement of CDU and SPD, "we aim to further enhance youth participation at the communal level, in cooperation with the communes, in order to provide a wide range of opportunities." However, there's no mention of allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in state and local elections, which is the case in several other federal states. In some places, even 16- and 17-year-olds have the right to vote in state elections.
The Landtag of Wiesbaden, in response to the discussion on enhancing interior security in Hesse, agreed to increase allowances for police officers, firefighters, and prison guards by 160 euros monthly to prevent potential loss of personnel to other states. Later in the session, the Landtag also announced the establishment of a committee of inquiry to consider the involvement of young citizens in democracy and enhance their participation at the communal level, as outlined in the Coalition Agreement of CDU and SPD.
