German Transport Ministry Plans Autobahn GmbH Reform (heise.de)

• Transport Ministry presents draft law to reform Autobahn GmbH.
• Autobahn GmbH to be allowed loans and bonds; three-pillar financing model.
• €5 billion from truck tolls to Autobahn GmbH; implementation from 2028.
• BUND criticizes potential neglect of maintenance and reduced state oversight.

"Germany's Federal Ministry of Transport is planning a reform of the state-owned Autobahn GmbH to strengthen its financing. A draft law proposes allowing the company to take loans and issue bonds. A three-pillar model of budget funds, user financing (truck tolls), and private capital aims to reduce dependence on the federal budget. About €5 billion from truck tolls would go to Autobahn GmbH. Implementation is planned for early 2028. Environmental group BUND criticizes the plan, calling for funds to be tied to maintenance rather than new construction."