Confirmed by Maurer – Carbon tax won’t come into effect until October

The ÖVP around party leader Karl Nehammer has acknowledged that reducing dependence on Russian gas is a state matter. Only a few ÖVP members would believe that business could continue as normal. The member of the National Council understands that NGOs would react angrily to the future CO₂ tax, but given the sharp price increases, it should be legitimate to talk about it.

Higher climate bonus and off for gas heating possible
Other topics in the Ö1 series were a higher climate bonus and the end of gas heating in new buildings from next year. As reported, the Ministry of Climate has discussed corresponding government-level talks, but has not yet released any results. According to Maurer, the proposal to set the climate bonus for 2022 uniformly at 250 euros instead of spreading it regionally between 100 and 200 euros. That would be a way to help quickly and unbureaucratically. The Greens politician remained vague about other options to curb inflation. Suggestions include one-off payments and grants.

Inflation aside, Maurer announced that the National Council would pass the party bill in July. It has also been established that official secrecy will be abolished. There is opposition to the Freedom of Information Act from various quarters, such as the city of Vienna.