Coronavirus - Parlt passes law enhancing govt powers

Hungarian lawmakers on Monday passed a law that grants the government enhanced powers to contain the spread of novel coronavirus. Among the measures, flouting quarantine regulations is punishable by up to three years in prison. Also, anyone who disseminates fake news or distorted information in a way that obstructs the effectiveness of the response to the epidemic is a crime punishable by 1-5 years in prison. The bill passed with 137 votes in favour and 53 against in a fast-tracked procedure. Submitted by the justice minister, the bill passed with the required two-thirds of votes. The law will come into effect on Tuesday and will end by a decision of parliament once the state of emergency has been declared over.