Administrative Burden Reduction Begins - Pentz Warns Against Old Habits - Hesse’s bold new act slashes 90 regulations to cut red tape for all
Hesse’s first Bureaucracy Reduction Act came into force at the start of the year. The new law cuts or simplifies 90 regulations, aiming to ease administrative burdens for citizens and businesses. Minister Manfred Pentz has now called on public agencies and companies to fully adopt the changes—and avoid falling back on old routines.
The act introduces over 120 measures to streamline processes across the state. One key change removes the need for original or certified copies of documents when registering for exams or applying for professional licenses. Many administrative tasks can also be completed by email instead of in person.
Pentz warned that, in the past, abolished requirements often persisted out of habit. He pointed to hotel registration forms as an example, even though the legal obligation to collect guest data no longer exists. Reporting obligations for nursing homes have also been reduced under the new rules. The minister stressed that all parties must actively support the reforms. He urged authorities and businesses to promote the simplifications and ensure the public knows about them. Without full commitment, he cautioned, the risk of slipping back into outdated practices remains.
The law marks a significant shift in how Hesse handles bureaucracy. Public agencies, companies, and citizens will now face fewer paperwork demands in daily procedures. The success of the reforms will depend on consistent implementation and awareness across the state.
