Czech bill to scrap TV and radio fees clears first reading, faces months of debate

On Saturday the Czech parliament approved the first reading of a draft law that would end television and radio licence fees. The next stage involves detailed scrutiny by parliamentary committees, normally allotted a 60-day window, though the lower house could reduce this period—a step one outlet coalition has chosen not to take. In the second reading, deputies may propose amendments, and opposition members anticipate influencing the final text.

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš stressed that opposition representatives will have room to suggest changes, and he has previously mentioned the option of voluntary contributions to public broadcasters. After passage in the Chamber of Deputies, the bill proceeds to the Senate, which has 30 days to act and may return it for further votes. The President can also return the law within 15 days, requiring another parliamentary vote to override, meaning the process will likely extend for several months.