Background & Purpose

The Council on Legislation reviews new laws before they are passed to ensure they follow the constitution and other rules. Sometimes, the number of law proposals becomes so large that the current five departments cannot keep up, creating a need for temporary extra capacity.

Proposals & Debate

The government proposed a temporary change to allow the Council on Legislation to operate with up to six departments instead of the usual five. This is intended to ensure that the council can continue to review important laws efficiently during a period when many proposals are expected to be submitted.

The Decision

The parliament approved the government's plan, which allows for a sixth department to be opened if needed during the first half of 2026.

Does this affect you?

  • Government and Parliament: They will benefit from faster reviews of new laws during the busy spring period of 2026.
  • Legal professionals: Those involved in the legislative process will see a more efficient review process for new government proposals.

In Practice

  • The Council on Legislation can open a sixth department starting January 9, 2026.
  • The total number of judges allowed to work at the same time remains the same.
  • The temporary expansion will automatically end on June 30, 2026.
  • After the end of June 2026, the council will return to having a maximum of five departments.