France's National Assembly Approves Bill to Introduce State of Emergency

Today, the National Assembly of France (the lower house of parliament) has approved a bill to establish a state of emergency in the country in response to the coronavirus pandemic. This information was reported by TASS, citing Le Parisien.

The bill allows the government to limit public freedoms for a duration of two weeks, including the implementation of a mass self-isolation mode. Furthermore, the government may gain the authority to impose a number of measures through specific decisions without consulting the parliament.

These actions may include financial aid for businesses and the postponement of the second round of local elections, the first round of which was held on March 15. There are also plans to increase the fines for violating self-isolation rules. Currently, venturing outdoors without a valid reason and without indicating a destination incurs a fine of 135 euros. If a person violates this rule twice within a 15-day period, the fine will double to 1,500 euros. Additionally, a fourth violation within one month could result in a fine of 3,700 euros, and the offender may face imprisonment for up to six months and be required to perform community service.

The bill will be discussed in the Senate (the upper house of parliament) on Sunday. As of March 21, there are 14,459 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in France, with the number of fatalities reaching 562. Since March 17, restrictions on citizens' movements have been in effect, requiring individuals to minimize their mobility. A completed authorization form stating the reason and destination for leaving home is required for urgent matters.