German coalition agrees to fast-track infrastructure, scrap unpopular heating law

GermanyDE's ruling coalition has agreed to a sweeping regulatory overhaul designed to revive Europe's largest economy, with new legislation fast-tracking infrastructure projects and scrapping controversial clean-heating requirements. Chancellor Friedrich Merzfriedrich merz announced the measures on Thursday following a cabinet meeting, signaling a sharp break from both the country's traditional fiscal conservatism and the previous government's strict environmental policies.

The new infrastructure law classifies a wide range of transport schemes as being of overriding public interest, giving them priority in planning and approval processes. All related administrative procedures will transition to a digital-only standard intended to shorten timelines, while electrifying rail lines of up to 60 kilometers will no longer require an environmental impact assessment. "Environmental protection remains important but it can no longer block urgently needed measures through endless procedures," Merz told a press conference.