The State Chancellery and the Ministry of Culture of Saxony-Anhalt (Germany) have announced the establishment of the "Market Surveillance Authority of the States for the Accessibility of Products and Services" (Marktüberwachungsstelle der Länder für die Barrierefreiheit von Produkten und Dienstleistungen - MLBF). This new public law institution, based in Magdeburg, will oversee compliance with national legal requirements for the accessibility of products and services starting June 28, 2025.

A. Background

The MLBF will play a central role in monitoring and enforcing the accessibility obligations set out in the Accessibility Strengthening Act (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz - BFSG). The products monitored include, among others, smartphones, smart TVs, bank and ticket machines, as well as e-book readers. Services in electronic commerce and banking services also fall under the supervision of the new authority. Manufacturers, retailers, and importers of these products, as well as service providers, are required to comply with the BFSG requirements. 

B. Outlook

The establishment of the MLBF is the result of a joint initiative by the 16 federal states, which have agreed on an efficient, cost-effective, and effective implementation of the accessibility requirements. The states have committed to ensuring adequate funding for the MLBF to guarantee a uniform implementation of the BFSG across the states. Petra Grimm-Benne, Minister for Labor, Social Affairs, Health, and Equality, emphasizes the importance of the new authority in ensuring accessibility in Germany.

Companies that fall within the scope of the BFSG should prepare for the new requirements and ensure that their products and services comply with the legal requirements. The MLBF will begin its monitoring activities in June 2025 and enforce compliance with accessibility obligations.

The Emerging Technologies Team at Reed Smith will keep you informed of all further developments. Stay informed!