Berlin Lawmakers Debate Citywide Fireworks Ban After New Year's Incidents

The Berlin House of Representatives considers stricter pyrotechnics regulations following widespread illegal use and attacks on emergency services during New Year's celebrations.

• The Berlin House of Representatives is discussing a proposal by the Green Party to implement a citywide ban on fireworks and advocate for a nationwide sales ban on pyrotechnics.
• The debate follows a New Year's Eve marked by illegal firework use, attacks on emergency responders, and over 1,500 recorded incidents of related crimes in Berlin.
• Berlin's Interior Senator Iris Spranger (SPD) is pushing for expanded firework-free zones and a review of regional crime data to guide future preventive measures.
• The CDU has expressed skepticism about a citywide ban, emphasizing stricter enforcement of existing laws and improved border controls to prevent the import of illegal fireworks.
• Opposition parties and some SPD members support broader restrictions, citing safety concerns for people and animals, while others argue Berlin lacks the legal authority for unilateral action.

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