It's getting serious! New market surveillance body of the federal states for accessibility

Magdeburg, March 18, 2025 -_ In a groundbreaking step towards a barrier-free Germany, the 16 federal states have decided to establish a central "Market Surveillance Body of the Federal States for the Accessibility of Products and Services" (MLBF) in Magdeburg. With effect from June 28, 2025, this newly founded institution under public law will monitor compliance with the legal requirements of the Barrier-Free Accessibility Reinforcement Act (BFSG) and thus make a decisive contribution to the inclusion and participation of all citizens.

A uniform approach for greater accessibility

The MLBF plays a central role in monitoring the implementation of accessibility-specific regulations that will affect products such as smartphones, smart TVs, bank and ticket machines, e-book readers and various services - particularly in e-commerce and the banking sector. These comprehensive controls ensure that manufacturers, retailers and importers comply with the required accessibility standards and thus enable everyone to access modern technologies and services.

The decision to establish a joint market surveillance body reflects the consensus of the countries. The aim is not only to create a uniform and cost-efficient monitoring mechanism, but also to guarantee the smooth and cross-state implementation of legal requirements. Petra Grimm-Benne, Minister for Labour, Social Affairs, Health and Equality, emphasizes:
"The joint body will ensure uniform implementation of the Accessibility Reinforcement Act across all federal states. We are thus sending a clear signal for an inclusive society in which no one is excluded."

Structure and working methods of the MLBF

The newly founded institution will initially employ around 70 people who are characterized by their professional expertise and commitment. In addition to inspecting products and services, they will also be responsible for advising companies in order to identify and rectify any deficiencies at an early stage. The focus is not only on monitoring, but also on prevention - an aspect that should contribute significantly to the sustainable improvement of accessibility.

The MLBF will be given extensive powers. In addition to regular inspections, it will be able to intervene promptly in the event of breaches of the statutory provisions and initiate appropriate measures. This is intended not only to avoid fines and other sanctions, but above all to take preventative measures to promote barrier-free design of products and services in the long term.

A law with far-reaching effects

The Accessibility Reinforcement Act (BFSG), which comes into force on June 28, 2025, is a central component of German inclusion policy. It stipulates that products and services must be accessible to all. Only micro-enterprises that offer services are exempt from the regulations - an exception applies here. However, such companies must also comply with the new requirements when they bring products into circulation. This differentiated approach ensures that both large and small players are integrated into the market and make their contribution to accessibility.

The wide range of applications of the BFSG shows how comprehensive the approach to promoting inclusion is. It is not just about technical aids, but also about everyday services that are an essential part of modern life. The central monitoring office in Magdeburg plays a key role in this by acting as a link between the federal states and establishing a uniform standard for all those involved.

Cooperation and communication

In addition to its operational tasks, the MLBF will work closely with other authorities and institutions to ensure comprehensive and coordinated implementation of the legal requirements. The focus here is on transparent communication and regular exchange. Information on the new market surveillance body and other relevant details on the BFSG and accessibility in general will be published on an ongoing basis on the state's central platform and on social media (including X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and WhatsApp). Further information and background information can also be found at https://aktion-barrierefrei.org/.

Outlook and significance for society

The founding of the MLBF marks an important milestone in the development of an accessible society. Cross-border cooperation and the creation of a central monitoring body not only set legal standards, but also raise awareness in society that accessibility is a fundamental human right. This inclusive approach promotes the participation of all citizens - regardless of individual limitations - and sends a strong signal for a future-oriented and inclusive policy.

The new market surveillance body is a decisive step towards sustainably implementing the goals set by the BFSG and paving the way for a truly barrier-free society. Companies, consumers and authorities alike will benefit from the clearly defined responsibilities and the focus on prevention and education.

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This release was published on openPR.