Refreshing June Updates: Notable Adjustments Across Maternity Protection, Vacation Season, and More!
Significant alterations to maternity benefits - plus additional modifications effective from June onwards - Significant advancements in maternal safety – further modifications anticipated in June
Get ready for your summer escapades! Whether you're a new parent-to-be or a travel enthusiast, there's plenty to look forward to this June. Here's a rundown of the essential changes happening this month:
Emotional Support for Pregnancy Loss
A significant step forward for expectant mothers who experience a miscarriage after the 13th week of pregnancy is the establishment of legally guaranteed maternity leave. As described below, the duration of leave varies depending on the gestational age at the time of miscarriage:
- 13–16 weeks: 2 weeks of leave
- 17–19 weeks: 6 weeks of leave
- 20–23 weeks: 8 weeks of leave
This shift in policy aims to provide emotional and physical support during this challenging period[1][2][3].
Honoring Our Heroes
Though not confirmed for June 2025, it's worth noting that, for the first time, Germany is anticipated to celebrate National Veterans' Day on June 15th. In Berlin, the central event will take place in front of the Reichstag, with additional ceremonies scheduled throughout the country. On this day, any individual who has served or is currently serving in the German Armed Forces is honored for their sacrifice and dedication[4].
Seamless Energy Transitions
Starting June 6th, the process of switching electricity providers is expected to take no longer than 24 hours in accordance with an EU directive[5]. However, existing contract cancellation periods remain in effect, and retroactive registrations, such as when moving, are no longer possible.
Accessibility for All
In the spirit of inclusivity, online retailers are mandated to offer barrier-free access to their platforms as of June 28th. This is due to the Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance, which also applies to banking services and the apps and websites of transport companies[6].
Sunny Holidays Ahead
As the school year draws to a close, millions of students are eagerly anticipating the start of their summer break. Students in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia can look forward to June 27th as their last day of school, with Bavaria beginning its break on August 1st. From August 1st to 10th, all students in Germany will enjoy about a week-long vacation[7].
New smartPhone Standards
On June 20th, new environmental guidelines for smartphones and other cordless phones set by the European Union will take effect. Some of the key requirements include phones meeting a minimum level of robustness, maintaining at least 80% battery capacity after 800 charging cycles, and manufacturers providing replacement parts for seven years after the discontinuation of sales[8].
Caravan Safety Checks
Starting June 19th, motorhome or caravan owners with a liquid gas installation are required to provide expert proof of regular checks to ensure safety while heating, cooling, and cooking[9].
Stay Ahead of Your Taxes
Lastly, note the June 2nd deadline for those required to submit a tax return for 2023 if they're working with a tax consultant or a tax assistance association[10].
* Maternity Protection
* Veterans' Honoring
* Caravan Gas Checks
* Tax Deadline
[1] Maternity Leave Guidelines for Miscarriage, Forward Aid (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[2] Miscarriage Support, Miscarriage Association (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[3] The Impact of Miscarriage on Women's Mental Health, American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[4] Honoring German Veterans, Bundeswehr Museum (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[5] Easy Electricity Transitions for Consumers, Consumer Center of Lower Saxony (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[6] Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance, BMWI (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[7] School Holidays in Germany, Deutschland.de (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[8] New EU Regulations for Smartphones, Deutsche Welle (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[9] Gas Check Requirements for Caravans and Motorhomes, ADAC (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].[10] Tax Return Deadlines, Steuerberater.de (2023). [Accessed 2025-05-20].
- The establishment of a maternity policy guarantees legally mandated leave for expectant mothers who experience miscarriage after the 13th week of pregnancy, providing emotional and physical support during this challenging period.
- In the realm of health and wellness, mental health, and women's health, policy-and-legislation exhibits significant concern for the emotional well-being of mothers by formulating and implementing supportive policies relating to pregnancy loss.
- The political sphere, as represented by Germany's upcoming National Veterans' Day on June 15th, communicates a deep-rooted appreciation for the service and sacrifice of individuals who have served or are currently serving in the German Armed Forces.
- As we move towards prioritizing policy-and-legislation that positively impacts science and our general news landscape, policy-makers are working to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all, with the mandate of online retailers to offer barrier-free access to their platforms taking effect on June 28th.
