Updates on Data Privacy Regulations and Oktoberfest Adjustments in September
In Hamm, citizens are gearing up for the election of the Integration Council, as new postal voting documents have been issued, according to recent announcements.
Meanwhile, in the halls of German politics, Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) and Federal Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) are set to answer questions from members of parliament when the Bundestag reconvenes on September 10th following the summer break.
As the world's largest folk festival, Oktoberfest, approaches, it's worth noting that cash remains the most common means of payment. However, for the first time, a tent at Oktoberfest (from September 20th) is going cashless: The "Munich Stubn" will no longer accept coins and banknotes as payment for beer and chicken.
In other Oktoberfest news, innkeepers at the festival may reserve ten percent of the seats for locals from 3:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, offering a chance for residents to enjoy the festivities more easily.
The price of beer at Oktoberfest will increase again, with a liter costing between 14.50 and 15.80 euros.
Moving on to policy matters, the EU Data Act, which comes into force on September 12th, aims to make it easier for consumers to view their device data and transfer it to other services. From this date, manufacturers of connected devices such as smart TVs, vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, e-bikes, fitness trackers, or cars must disclose the information they collect and provide a means to access it.
This new legislation also requires manufacturers to improve transparency about data collected and provide consumers more control over their data, including easier access and the ability to share data with other services, effective from September 12, 2025.
In Hamm, the focus of the Hamm Cycling Challenge 2025 is on traffic turnaround, while support is being provided for families with school starts.
Lastly, on September 11th at around 11:00 AM, sirens will test warning systems nationwide in Germany as part of routine safety procedures.
Stay tuned for more updates as these events unfold.
