BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - As spring gains momentum and Easter approaches, consumers face more than just holidays and fair weather this April. What changes does the new month bring?

Pay raises for public sector employees

Following an agreement between unions and employers, approximately 925,000 public sector employees in Germany's federal states will receive a pay increase starting April 1: wages will rise by 2.8 percent, with a minimum increase of 100 euros. This applies to 15 of the 16 federal states, as Hesse negotiates separately. The next increase is scheduled for March 1, 2027.

Free lung cancer screening

Starting April 1, heavy smokers are entitled to an annual free screening for the early detection of lung cancer. Active and former smokers aged between 50 and 75 can undergo low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) every 12 months. The service is covered by statutory health insurance providers.

However, it may take some time before appointments become widely available. Doctors and radiologists require specialized training, and the latter also need specific authorization, according to the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA).

Mandatory USB-C charging ports for laptops

As of April 28, laptops sold in the EU must be equipped with a USB-C charging port. While this has applied to small devices like smartphones since late 2024, laptops were granted a longer transition period. Even devices requiring more than the 240 watts possible via USB-C must include the port at least as an additional socket.

Ban on laughing gas for minors

Starting April 12, minors nationwide are prohibited from purchasing or possessing nitrous oxide (laughing gas). Online sales and vending machine purchases will be banned entirely. For minors in particular, the consumption of laughing gas carries significant health risks, ranging from unconsciousness to permanent nervous system damage. Strict regulations are also being introduced for the chemicals Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-Butanediol (BDO), commonly known as "knockout drops."

Provider change for "Miles & More" credit cards

For customers of Lufthansa's "Miles & More" loyalty program, the current credit card arrangement is ending: cards issued by Deutsche Kreditbank (DKB) will lose their validity by April 30 at the latest. Those wishing to continue earning miles on purchases and protecting their balance from expiration must switch to the new Deutsche Bank credit card. This requires a new application, including a credit check and personal details.

New pyrotechnics rules in Switzerland following fire disaster

In Switzerland, the use of pyrotechnics in publicly accessible indoor spaces will be banned starting April 1. This was agreed upon by a committee of building directors from all 26 cantons. The move follows the fire disaster in Crans-Montana, which claimed 41 lives and left dozens injured. On New Year's Eve, a sparkling party fountain ignited foam on the ceiling of a venue there.

Warnings against "shrinkflation" in Austria

Less content for the same price - consumers in Austria will be informed of shrinking package sizes via warning labels starting April 1. Retailers must inform customers for 60 days if a product's volume has decreased while the packaging size remains the same, provided the price has not been reduced accordingly. Violations carry fines of up to 15,000 euros. Discussions regarding greater transparency for hidden price increases are also ongoing in Germany./mda/DP/zb