Latvia delays implementation of EU directive on environmental crime penalties
Latvia has missed the May 21 deadline to transpose the EU directive setting minimum penalties for environmental crimes. This week, the Saeima prepared amendments to the Criminal Law for the second reading.
Two years ago, an EU directive came into force establishing minimum penalties for environmental crimes. All member states, including Latvia, were required to incorporate these requirements into national law by May 21 of this year. However, Latvia has not yet completed this process.
This week, the Saeima worked on preparing amendments to the Criminal Law for the second reading. Lawmakers discussed how to accurately transpose the directive's provisions, including setting appropriate penalties for pollution, illegal waste management, and other offenses. The exact content and adoption timeline of the amendments remain unclear.
The delay could expose Latvia to potential sanctions from the European Court of Justice for failing to implement the directive on time. Nevertheless, the Saeima hopes to finalize the changes in the coming months to ensure compliance with EU requirements.
