Watercents in Bavaria: Introduction postponed - dispute over details rages

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In Bavaria, the introduction of a new water center concerns the public and the political actors. This levy, which is to be imposed on all consumers, is intended to finance measures to protect drinking water and water pollution. The introduction has already been threatened several times, but the negotiations within the state government are complex and lengthy.

Significance of the water center for society

the water centers could not only strengthen environmental protection, but also have an impact on the water costs of consumers. A fee of about 10 cents per cubic meter of water is planned, which would mean annual additional costs of 15 to 20 euros for a family of four. For many households, this could be a noticeable but portable load. In theory, the levy could also lead to falling water and wastewater fees, since the income from the water cent could enable a redistribution of the costs.

Political background and internal conflicts

The discussion about the water centers is complicated by internal disputes within the government coalition consisting of CSU and free voters. Environment Minister Thorsten Glauber has submitted a comprehensive design that includes all water consumers. However, part of his own faction is forced to restore that would only capture the water withdrawal via public lines. This could particularly favor farmers and companies of mineral water companies, use their own wells.

Within the CSU, there is also a range of opinions that range from rejection to the support of the water center. This inconsistency could be crucial for whether the introduction can be promoted at all. Prime Minister Markus Söder emphasized that the coalition is in the final phase of negotiation, but there are still a few questions to be clarified before an agreement can be reached.

Compromise lines and future steps

To overcome the differences, possible compromises are currently being worked on. A solution could be the gradual introduction of the water center. Initially, only the basic consumers and already equipped fountain users could be recorded. This is also intended to cover legal concerns regarding equal treatment. The President of the Community Day has already urged the possible consequences of a "clientele policy" and asked the government to treat all consumers equally.

Future amendment to the Water Act

Apart from the discussion about the WasserCents', Minister Glauber is planning a comprehensive amendment to the Water Act this year. This will not only contain the details of the introduction of the water center, but also regulations on flood prevention. This includes regulations that are intended to strengthen the protection of areas against floods in order to minimize damage in the future.

The situation illustrates the challenges and tensions associated with the introduction of new environmental protection measures. While the need for water protection is undisputed, the voices of the various user groups and representatives of interest must also flow into the political decision -making process. The further course of the negotiations and the final introduction of the water center will significantly decide how Bayern deals with its resources and does justice to its citizens.

- Nag