Bulgarian legislative reforms in education and road safety

The Bulgarian Parliament is reviewing legislative amendments concerning education and road safety. Educational proposals include introducing mandatory subjects on virtues and values, alongside systemic language support for students with insufficient Bulgarian proficiency.

Regarding road safety, a bill passed its first reading to amend the Road Traffic Act. A central component of this legislation is a prohibition on trucks exceeding 12 tons overtaking on two-lane motorways and expressways. Other proposed changes include refining alcohol and drug testing procedures and allowing temporary vehicle suspensions for unsafe tire conditions.

However, the Institute for Road Safety (IPB) has criticized the truck lane ban, labeling it a “smoke screen” for hidden economic interests. The IPB alleges the bill contains provisions designed to create financial opportunities in sectors such as Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) and surveillance technology. The Institute further claimed the bill was introduced by parliamentary representatives to bypass mandatory public discussions and impact assessments, suggesting the legislation may prioritize profit-driven road control over safety.