Hungary clarifies regulations for village bus program

The Ministry of Rural and Settlement Development has issued a statement clarifying the regulations regarding village buses acquired through the Hungarian Village Program. Under the support structure established during the previous government cycle, municipalities are only required to report to the Ministry regarding the initial procurement of the vehicles.

Regarding the use of these vehicles, municipalities are not required to report on usage related to official municipal tasks, such as transporting local communities, groups, or maintaining sister-settlement relations. However, the Ministry emphasized that private use of these vehicles is strictly prohibited. Local governments are responsible for regulating the proper use of the vehicles through official decrees, as authorized by laws on social administration and services.

The Hungarian State Treasury maintains the authority to audit project documentation, minutes, and invoices during the five-year maintenance period to ensure the vehicles remain operational. Once the five-year maintenance period concludes, beneficiaries gain full control over the vehicles, including the right to sell or lease them.