BERLIN (AP) — The German parliament on Friday approved legislation introducing payment cards for asylum-seekers, a system that is meant to limit benefits paid in cash and make the country less attractive for migrants. Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Germany’s 16 state governors agreed in principle to introduce the system in early November, but the governing coalition took until last week to iron out differences on whether specific legislation was needed and on its details. The resulting bill was approved by a large majority in parliament’s lower house, or Bundestag. It calls for asylum-seekers to receive their benefits on a card that can be used for payments in local shops and services. They will only be able to withdraw limited amounts of cash and will not be able to transfer money outside Germany. The aim is to prevent migrants sending money to family and friends abroad, or to smugglers. |
Celtic closes in on Scottish league title by beating Rangers 2Sydney Sweeney put on a very leggy display in tiny metallic shorts and kneeBears coach Matt Eberflus says No. 1 pick Caleb Williams will open season as No. 1 QBVermont Legislature adjourns session focused on property taxes, housing, climate changeTips to make a house safe and accessible for older adultsHomers by Acuña, Albies and Olson in 3rd lead Morton and Braves to 4Honolulu agrees to 4North Korean leader Kim supervises latest test of new multiple rocket launcherDog Show 101: What's what at the Westminster Kennel ClubI'm a psychiatrist and I do not believe Fiona Harvey was lying to Piers Morgan