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        <title><![CDATA[Walloon Parliament · OpenDemocratie]]></title>
        <link><![CDATA[https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/feed/walloon-parliament.xml]]></link>
        <description><![CDATA[Bills and political choices in plain language. Vote anonymously and compare with parliament.]]></description>
        <language>en-BE</language>
        <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>

                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal to reverse fare increases for Walloon public transport operator TEC]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/402</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal asks the Walloon Government to cancel the planned TEC fare hikes and keep the share of passenger revenues at 10 percent. The measure affects public transport users in Wallonia, especially young people, pensioners, workers, and low-income individuals. If approved, your bus and tram season tickets will not see the sharp price increases previously decided.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon Government to regain approval over TEC bus fares]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/306</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal requires the Walloon Government to approve TEC public transport fares in advance again, including recent price hikes. This affects bus passengers in Wallonia, especially young people, students, and seniors over 65 who faced sharp fare increases. If adopted, the transport operator will no longer set prices entirely on its own, ensuring political accountability for public transport costs.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon Government would regain decision-making power over TEC fares]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/305</link>
                <description><![CDATA[This proposal aims to return the power to set public transport fares directly to the Walloon Government, leaving the transport operator OTW (TEC) only to submit proposals. The measure affects TEC public transport passengers in Wallonia and the management of the transport authority. In practice, the government would have to review recent sharp price increases and take direct political responsibility for ticket and subscription costs.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal to ban releasing farm-raised game into nature for hunting]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/304</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal bans releasing farm-raised small game and waterfowl for hunting, with a strict exception to help restore grey partridge populations. This mainly affects hunters, game breeders, and nature and animal welfare organisations in Wallonia. For citizens, this means greater protection for local wildlife and the end of releasing farmed birds purely to be shot.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon municipalities to better integrate gender equality into local policies]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/302</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Walloon municipalities in the French-speaking area must integrate equality between women and men into their strategic plans and attach a gender note to their budget. One alderman will also be designated to coordinate this policy. Municipal executives and local administrative staff will need to adapt their planning, supported by tools, training, and guidelines provided by the Walloon Government. Your municipality will review whether public spaces, local services, and opening hours practically benefit women and men in an equal way.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Easier conditions for property tax reduction for disability in Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/312</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The age limit for the onset of a disability increases from 65 to 67, and the disability no longer needs to be officially confirmed before that age. This applies to residents in the Walloon Region who have a disability or live in a household with a person with a disability. You can still receive the property tax reduction on your home if your disability is officially recognized after age 67, provided its cause occurred beforehand.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal for a mandatory Walloon plan to fight poverty]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/311</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Every new Walloon government will be required to adopt an anti-poverty action plan within twelve months, including measurable targets, budgets, and mandatory evaluations. This plan affects regional ministers, local public social welfare centres (CPAS), charities, and primarily residents living in or at risk of poverty. You will see policy designed more directly with the people affected, helping regional support measures better match daily realities.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal for a Walloon heatwave plan to protect businesses]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/407</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Lawmakers ask the Walloon Government to create a dedicated heatwave plan to help businesses adapt to increasingly frequent periods of extreme heat. The measure targets Walloon companies and workers, focusing particularly on heavily exposed sectors such as construction, hospitality, and logistics. In practical terms, it aims to adjust working conditions during hot weather and ensure everyday goods, shops, and services remain accessible to you.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[New rules on fast electricity metering data in Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/303</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 14 October 2026. Distribution network operators and transmission operator Elia may formally agree on how to handle sub-15-minute metering data used to balance the grid. This measure mainly affects network operators and professional energy providers that help keep the electricity system stable. Nothing changes for your regular electricity bill or standard home meter at this time.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Study on creating a Vesdre Laboratory to tackle floods and droughts]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/410</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Parliament asks the Walloon Government to task research institute IWEPS with studying how to set up a 'Vesdre Laboratory'. This small technical team would help put flood and drought management plans into practice. The proposal mainly concerns local authorities, organizations, and residents in the Vesdre valley, and potentially other Walloon river basins later on. For you, this would provide an accessible, local single point of contact for questions about rebuilding, water management, and building permits.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Building ban proposed for flood-prone areas in the Vesdre valley]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/411</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal asks the Walloon Government to amend regional zoning plans so that high-risk land along the Vesdre river can no longer be built on. It mainly affects landowners, the authorities of 25 local municipalities, and prospective builders across the Vesdre catchment area. If implemented, you will no longer be allowed to build on specific flood-prone plots, aiming to protect the valley from future flood damage.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal for clearer rules on data centres in Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/406</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The Walloon Parliament calls on the government to strictly regulate new and expanding data centres, focusing on their water, electricity, and land use. This mainly affects tech companies, network operators, farmers, and residents living near potential project sites. Your living environment and natural resources gain better protection against pollution and water scarcity, while extra energy costs will not be shifted onto your bill.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal to share future road vignette revenue with Walloon municipalities]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/404</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The Walloon Parliament calls on the government to allocate a portion of future digital road vignette revenues to local municipalities. This affects Walloon municipalities, which manage the majority of the road network, and the Walloon regional government. For you, it ensures your municipality keeps sufficient funds to maintain local roads and bike paths without increasing your overall car tax burden.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Mandatory greening of public spaces and car parks in Wallonia from 2028]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/319</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal requires major renovations of public spaces and open-air car parks with at least twenty spaces to include trees, greenery, and permeable ground surfaces. Municipalities, urban developers, and owners of private or public car parks will have to comply with these rules. From 2028, you will see more shade, plants, and natural rainwater absorption in Walloon towns, helping to lower summer heat and prevent flooding.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon business parks must become more resilient to climate change]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/320</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Business parks will need to include measures against flooding, extreme heat, and to boost biodiversity, with government funding also possible for existing sites. This affects developers, local authorities, and businesses located or operating in Walloon business parks. In your local area, these measures mean a lower risk of flooding during heavy rain and a greener work environment.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal for mandatory rent caps on Wallonia's private rental market]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/321</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal makes the Walloon rent grid binding and caps rent at a maximum of twenty percent above the reference rent. This measure applies to tenants and private landlords of regular homes and student accommodations in Wallonia. For new leases signed from 1 January 2027, landlords cannot set excessively high rents, and the justice of the peace can lower them if disputed.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal for a heatwave action plan for Walloon public transport TEC]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/412</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The Walloon Parliament is calling on the regional government to establish and fund a heatwave action plan for the TEC bus network. This directly affects passengers and bus drivers, particularly in Hainaut and Walloon Brabant where fewer buses currently have air conditioning. During heatwaves, air-conditioned buses will be prioritized, stops will get more shade or water points, and you will receive earlier alerts on schedule changes.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Wallonia reforms support for business and research innovation networks]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/307</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 30 September 2026. The Walloon government is replacing current clusters and competitiveness poles with a single network for each strategic innovation domain. This mainly affects Walloon businesses, universities, research centers, and the managers running these innovation networks. As a citizen, you will not see an immediate impact, but the goal is to use public funds more efficiently to boost the economy and create jobs.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal to better protect Walloon public housing from heatwaves]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/415</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The parliament asks the Walloon Government to adapt public housing for extreme summer heat, using shading, ventilation, green spaces, and a register to map overheating risks. This affects public housing companies and social housing tenants in Wallonia, with extra focus on vulnerable groups such as the elderly and people with health conditions. As a social housing tenant, you would receive better support during heatwaves, access to cooler communal spaces, and potential home improvements without any increase in rent or charges.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon proposal to better protect homes against summer heatwaves]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/414</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal asks the Walloon Government to adapt renovation grants, loans, and energy audits to include protection against extreme summer heat. It affects homeowners, private tenants, and renovation professionals in Wallonia, with a specific focus on vulnerable households. You could more easily access financial support or advice for energy-efficient cooling solutions, such as external blinds, shutters, and proper ventilation.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon proposal to better protect low-income homes from heatwaves]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/413</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The Walloon Parliament asks the government to update the MEBAR grant scheme to include measures preventing summer overheating in homes. This targets low-income households in Wallonia receiving guidance from local energy advice desks. You could in the future receive advice and financial aid for energy-efficient cooling solutions, such as sun shades, insect screens, or ceiling fans, rather than costly air conditioning.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal to extend tax support for newspaper and magazine distribution]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/408</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The Walloon Parliament asks the Walloon Government to urge the federal government to keep the tax credit for newspaper and magazine delivery beyond 2026. This directly affects publishers, printers, distributors, and readers of printed press across Wallonia. If the aid ends, subscriptions could become significantly more expensive or titles might disappear; this proposal aims to avoid that.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Free drinking water required in subsidised Walloon sports facilities]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/330</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Sports facilities applying for regional Walloon subsidies must provide at least one clearly signed and free drinking water tap. This rule affects managers of sports complexes and local clubs applying for regional funding for construction or major renovations. As an athlete or visitor, you will be able to refill your water bottle for free, making it easier to stay hydrated in hot weather.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[New rules to balance public welfare council work in Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/314</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Local public welfare councils must set annual schedules in advance, and individual members may attend meetings remotely for reasons of pregnancy, childcare, or caregiving. The proposal applies to members of public social welfare centres (CPAS) in Wallonia, especially parents and caregivers. If you serve on a welfare council, you can more easily balance your mandate with personal duties and receive better protections against harassment and sexism.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Making local political roles easier to balance with family and caregiving]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/315</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Municipalities and provinces will need to schedule meetings in advance, allow remote attendance for childbirth or caregiving, and tackle sexism. This applies to local and provincial council members and executives in Wallonia. For you, it means your elected representatives can more easily balance public service with family life, fostering more diverse local councils.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Mandatory local heatwave plan for every Walloon municipality]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/331</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Every Walloon municipality must establish an action plan to protect its residents during extreme heat events. Municipalities and public social welfare centres will organise this, focusing especially on vulnerable and isolated people. During a heatwave, you will more easily find drinking water, cooling locations, and accessible information offline.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Smart transport systems and improved traffic data in Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/308</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 30 September 2026. Wallonia is updating its laws to align with European rules, facilitating the digital sharing of transport and traffic data. Road authorities, transport bodies, and mobility app providers will need to make traffic information available in a standardized digital format. You will receive more accurate real-time updates on traffic jams, speed limits, and roadworks in navigation apps for smoother journeys.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[More autonomy for TEC and updated rules against public nuisance]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/316</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 2 September 2026. The Walloon public transport operator OTW (TEC) gains more autonomy over its fares and services, while rules on fare evasion, nuisance, and surveillance cameras are updated. This affects all TEC public transport passengers in Wallonia and the transport company's staff. You may see annually indexed fares and face faster administrative fines for misconduct, though discounted fares for specific groups remain legally protected.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 02 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon motion opposing federal home visits targeting undocumented migrants]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/409</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Lawmakers urge the Walloon Government to ask the federal government to withdraw its bill permitting home visits. This proposal addresses federal authorities and affects undocumented migrants as well as individuals and groups hosting them. For now, the law does not change, but parliament formally opposes entering private homes outside the framework of a criminal investigation.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon proposal to create special flood protection zones]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/318</link>
                <description><![CDATA[A new planning tool allows the Walloon government to establish flood protection zones where the construction of new buildings is banned. This affects municipalities, owners of land or properties within these designated risk areas, and public planners. You will not be allowed to build new homes there, renovations must meet strict flood-proofing rules, and owners may receive compensation for lost property value.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon support for asylum seekers with disabilities during their procedure]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/323</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 15 July 2026. Asylum seekers with disabilities and minors will be able to access support and services from AViQ in Wallonia while their application is processed. The change applies to applicants for international protection living in French-speaking Wallonia who need specialized care or reception arrangements. If you are seeking asylum and have a disability, you can receive adapted housing, technical aids, and employment support more quickly.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Wallonia postpones takeover of inheritance and registration taxes to 2028]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/309</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 30 September 2026. Wallonia is delaying the transfer of managing inheritance and registration taxes from 1 January 2027 to 1 January 2028. This is primarily an administrative adjustment between the federal government and the Walloon Region to allow more time for technical preparation. For citizens, nothing changes regarding the tax amounts or rules: the federal tax office will simply continue collecting them for an additional year.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal for affordable electric car leasing in Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/317</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal enables the Walloon Government to create a 'social leasing' scheme for electric cars. It focuses primarily on lower-income households, single parents, and commuters living in rural areas who depend on their cars. If the plan goes ahead, qualifying citizens could lease an affordable, eco-friendly electric car for a reduced monthly fee.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Proposal to improve access to public toilets across Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/403</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 30 September 2026. The Walloon Parliament calls on the government to increase the number of public toilets, including inside government buildings, partner businesses, and motorway rest areas. This mainly benefits residents, travellers, women, the elderly, and people living with chronic illnesses or disabilities. You will more easily find a free and accessible toilet while out, using online maps or a dedicated pass for individuals with chronic conditions.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Pay protection for mayors and aldermen taking parental leave]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/322</link>
                <description><![CDATA[In Wallonia, mayors and aldermen will continue to receive their salary during maternity, paternity, adoption, or foster care leave. The proposal applies to local elected officials in Wallonia who take temporary leave from office to care for a new child. For you as a citizen, this brings no direct change in daily life, but it helps local politicians balance family commitments with their mandate.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon public services to join local anti-radicalisation security cells]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/324</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 15 July 2026. This draft decree allows Walloon public services, including social welfare centres (CPAS), to participate in local multidisciplinary security meetings against radicalisation. It mainly affects local councils, social welfare staff, and regional bodies cooperating with mayors and the local police. For you, it means authorities can coordinate earlier to prevent security risks, while strictly adhering to privacy and professional secrecy rules.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon public services can join local safety meetings on radicalisation]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/325</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 15 July 2026. Walloon regional bodies, including housing and employment agencies, can now take part in municipal security cells preventing radicalisation and terrorism. Mayors, police forces, and staff from regional administration, social housing, and employment services receive clear rules on how to cooperate. If your personal situation is discussed, your personal data is strictly protected and shared only when genuinely necessary for public safety.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon municipalities can more easily curb waste tax increases]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/339</link>
                <description><![CDATA[The proposal makes a temporary rule permanent, allowing municipalities to avoid passing on sudden cost increases in waste management entirely to households. The measure applies to Walloon municipalities that choose to activate this option, and to their residents. If your municipality uses this rule, your waste tax may increase less because the local council covers part of the extra costs itself.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Mandatory underground cable and pipe checks via digital portal in Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/326</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 15 July 2026. Anyone planning excavation works in Wallonia will be required to request plans of underground cables and pipes through a central digital portal. The rule applies to all utility operators, contractors, architects, and private individuals carrying out works on public or private land. If you carry out major digging works deeper than 50 centimetres at home, you must request these plans for free at least twenty working days in advance.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Reform of Walloon support services for starting your own business]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/327</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 15 July 2026. Wallonia is reorganising the organisations that support job creation and entrepreneurship, bringing them together under the banner 'Starter Wallonia'. The number of agencies will be reduced, and coaching will follow clear stages from the initial idea to business launch and follow-up. This affects jobseekers and aspiring entrepreneurs in Wallonia planning to start a business, as well as the existing support organisations. If you want to start a business, you will receive more tailored guidance with regular progress checks. During an optional test phase, you can safely trial your activity under the organisation's company number while retaining your current legal status.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[New support for Walloon jobseekers starting out as self-employed]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/328</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 15 July 2026. The Walloon 'Airbag' scheme is reformed: procedures are simplified, and financial assistance is paid in three decreasing installments over up to two years. The measure applies to jobseekers in Wallonia registered for at least four months who complete recognized coaching to become self-employed as their main occupation. You receive higher financial support to start your business, provided your business project is officially approved as viable.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[First adjustment of the Walloon public spending budget for 2026]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/428</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 1 July 2026. This proposal updates the Walloon Region's spending plan for 2026 by reallocating budget credits across public services and investment projects. The adjustments directly affect regional government departments, local municipalities, social welfare centres, and public agencies such as the employment office and family benefit funds. For you as an individual, there is no direct impact on personal taxes, but it secures ongoing funding for public services, housing schemes, and community support.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[First adjustment of the Walloon Region revenue budget for 2026]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/429</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 1 July 2026. This proposal updates the estimated revenues of the Walloon Region for 2026, including adjustments to current revenues, capital receipts, and loans. The change mainly concerns the Walloon Government and public administrations, which operate using these updated financial estimates. For you as an individual, nothing changes directly in everyday life; the document merely adjusts internal budget figures without setting new tax rates.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Wallonia modernises business vouchers for entrepreneurs and SMEs]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/334</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 1 July 2026. The Walloon business voucher scheme is being updated, introducing a central digital platform, stricter quality checks for service providers, and targeted support for innovation and energy transition. The rules apply to aspiring entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises in Wallonia; non-profit organisations are explicitly excluded. As an entrepreneur or business starter, you can access subsidies for training, advice, and guidance more easily, while fraud and abuse face tougher penalties.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Stricter and more transparent budgetary rules for Wallonia]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/333</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 1 July 2026. The Walloon Region is aligning its budget framework with EU rules, adding independent evaluations and accounting for climate-related risks. This mainly affects the Walloon government, its public administrations, and agencies responsible for preparing and reporting financial data. You will not feel any direct change in your daily life, but it ensures more transparent and reliable management of regional public finances.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon Parliament pushes to host the underground Einstein Telescope]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/416</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 17 June 2026. The resolution urges the Walloon government to actively support hosting the Einstein Telescope in the border region of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. It mainly affects scientific researchers, technology firms, and residents in the province of Liège, where most of the underground facility would be located. If the project is selected, you could see new high-skilled jobs, regional economic development, and upgraded local infrastructure.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Adjustments to Wallonia's Coup de Pouce loan for SMEs and entrepreneurs]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/340</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 3 June 2026. The proposal introduces a single 2.5% tax credit rate, lowers the lender cap to €75,000, raises the borrower cap to €300,000, and blocks circular cross-lending schemes to prevent tax avoidance. It affects Walloon small and medium-sized enterprises, self-employed workers, and individual citizens lending money through the scheme. If you lend your savings to a local business, you get a simpler tax credit on up to €75,000, while businesses can raise more money in total from multiple lenders.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Subsidised Walloon companies must post job vacancies on Forem]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/310</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Companies receiving regional public subsidies in Wallonia will be required to publish their job openings on the Forem employment website. This affects subsidised large enterprises, service voucher agencies, social economy initiatives, and export-supported businesses. If you are looking for a job in Wallonia, you will be able to find more vacancies gathered in one central public place.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon tax authority gains access to central bank account register]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/336</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 17 June 2026. Walloon tax officers collecting unpaid taxes will be granted access to the central register of bank accounts and financial contracts managed by the National Bank. This affects individuals and businesses with outstanding regional tax debts or penalties in Wallonia. If you owe unpaid taxes in Wallonia, the tax authority will be able to quickly locate your accounts or life insurance contracts to freeze funds or assess payment plans.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title><![CDATA[Walloon action plan against forest diseases and pests]]></title>
                <link>https://be.opendemocratie.eu/en/proposals/329</link>
                <description><![CDATA[Passed on 15 July 2026. Wallonia is strengthening its powers to tackle forest diseases, bark beetle outbreaks, and drought, while officially establishing an Observatory for Forest Health. The rules mainly affect public and private forest owners, woodland managers, and forestry businesses. If you own woodland, authorities may inspect your land and require urgent health measures, but you can also receive compensation and financial support.]]></description>
                <author><![CDATA[OpenDemocratie]]></author>
                <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                    <category>Walloon Parliament</category>
                            </item>
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