Bulgaria reviews educational reforms and new road safety laws

The Bulgarian Parliament is reviewing several legislative amendments affecting education and road safety.

In education, new bills aim to introduce mandatory subjects focused on virtues, religions, and values. The proposals also include systemic language support for students with insufficient Bulgarian proficiency, featuring standardized assessments, preparatory language groups, and the possibility of repeating the first grade. The Bulgarian Entrepreneurship Association (BESCO) has called for a fundamental reform to prepare students for the future economy, noting that language support requires prepared teachers and adequate resources to be effective.

Regarding road safety, a new bill passed its first reading to amend the Road Traffic Act. Key changes include prohibiting trucks with a maximum mass exceeding 12 tons from overtaking on two-lane motorways and expressways to reduce accidents and traffic congestion. The legislation also introduces exceptions to seatbelt requirements for emergency medical personnel and police officers during specific duties, allows for the temporary suspension of vehicles with unsafe tire conditions, and refines procedures for alcohol and drug testing.