Karol Nawrocki blocks 'lex szarlatan' law

Polish President Karol Nawrocki has blocked the implementation of the 'lex szarlatan' law, which aimed to penalize pseudomedical practices, by referring it to the Constitutional Tribunal for preventive review. While the law sought to crack down on fraudulent medical claims, the President's move effectively places the legislation in a political freeze. Instead, Nawrocki has announced his own legislative initiative to amend the penal code to combat 'charlatans.'

The President's proposal includes severe penalties for inducing dangerous health decisions: up to three years in prison for encouraging patients to abandon medical treatment, up to ten years for causing serious health damage, and between two to fifteen years if the actions result in death.

The decision has sparked significant public debate. Analysis from Res Futura indicates a divided online population, with approximately 50 percent supporting the move and 50 percent opposing it. Critics argue the decision protects pseudomedical practitioners and delays patient protection, while supporters view it as a necessary response to poorly drafted legislation.

Additionally, the Presidential Chancellery has distanced itself from a recent meeting with Jerzy Zięba, a known promoter of pseudomedicine, who lobbied against the original law. Spokesperson Rafał Leśkiewicz stated the meeting was a mistake and that Zięba would not have been admitted had his presence been known.