Spin: Hot Off the Press! Key Developments for June 2025 in Germany's Maternal Leave, Veterans, Energy Efficiency, and More
Significant advancement in maternity benefits - along with other alterations taking effect in June - Significant advancements in maternal safety, accompanied by further adjustments expected in June
Here's a rundown of the most significant changes happening in June 2025 across various sectors in Germany:
Maternity Protection Post-Miscarriage
The government has expanded support for women who experience miscarriages. If the loss occurs after the 13th week of pregnancy, the affected individuals are entitled to maternity leave of varying lengths, with a maximum of 8 weeks for losses between weeks 20-23.
Saluting the Troops: National Veterans' Day
Scheduled for June 15, the first ever National Veterans' Day celebration will take place at the Reichstag in Berlin to honor the military service of veterans. All those who served as active soldiers or were honorably discharged from the German Armed Forces are considered veterans.
Green Energy Revolution: Snap an Electricity Provider in 24 Hours!
As of June 6, you can switch energy providers within a day thanks to the EU directive. Existing contract cancellation periods still apply, and retroactive registrations during moves will no longer be possible.
An Accessible Digital Future: Barrier-Free Online Shopping and Banking
From June 28, online retailers, banks, and transport companies will need to make their platforms more accessible to people with disabilities, per the Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance.
Seeing the Light at the End of the School Year
The students of Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia will kick off their summer holidays on June 27, while Bavaria will follow suit on August 1. In total, the summer break will run from June 27 to August 10.
Smarts Getting Smarter: New EU Requirements for Smartphones
Starting June 20, 2025, European regulatory requirements will require smartphones to meet minimum durability standards, maintain battery capacity, and provide replacement parts for seven years post-discontinuation. The goal is to minimize environmental impact caused by these devices.
Time to Get Your Camper Gassed Up!
Caravan and motorhome owners are now required to provide documentation of routine expert gas checks, which will become mandatory as of June 19. The amendment to the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) intends to ensure camper safety while heating, cooling, and cooking.
Remember the Deadline: Tax Time's A-Comin'!
Those filing a 2023 tax return through a tax consultant or a tax assistance association must meet the June 2 deadline. The deadline for those self-filing their 2024 tax return will be July 31. A healthy dose of early submission can help you avoid penalties and spur faster refunds.
References:
- *The EU Regulations and Online Accessibility*
- Germany.de, Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.germany.de/
- The Local Germany, Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.thelocal.de/
- The community policy on employment is being re-evaluated to provide extended support for women experiencing miscarriages, in line with Germany's recent policy updates.
- The science sector is taking a big step forward in promoting mental health by implementing new employment policies that prioritize mental well-being in the workplace.
- In the health-and-wellness industry, employers are increasingly adopting employment policies aimed at improving womens' health, recognizing the importance of women's specific health needs.
- Energy efficiency has become a top priority in the industry, with many companies updating their employment policies to encourage green initiatives and sustainable practices.
- With the rapid advancement of technology, finance-focused employers are adjusting their employment policies to accommodate the emerging trends and intelligent systems in the sector.
- The home-and-garden industry is undergoing changes, with many companies adopting employment policies that encourage a focus on lifestyle and outdoor living experiences.
- The women's health segment in the smartphone market is growing, as manufacturers update their employment policies to prioritize the development of health-focused features for female users.
- The energy sector is grappling with new employment policies aimed at promoting renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based energy.
- The outdoor-living market is seeing an influx of new companies adopting employment policies that align with the industry's focus on sustainability and eco-conscious practices.
- In the lifestyle realm, employers are implementing employment policies that encourage personal-growth and car maintenance as part of a holistic approach to overall well-being.
- The football industry, particularly the European leagues, is exploring new employment policies aimed at enhancing player physical and mental health, as emphasis on sports medicine and mental well-being grows.
- The education-and-self-development sector is seeing a shift in employment policies, with more focus on lifelong learning and providing opportunities for continued growth and knowledge acquisition.
