Passed by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey: New sanctions coming for online news sites

With the "Legislative Proposal on Amending Certain Laws" accepted in the General Assembly of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM), changes were made in many areas ranging from the police organization to press regulations, and from tax practices to social areas.

STAFFING RATIOS CHANGED IN THE POLICE ORGANIZATION

Within the scope of the regulation, the personnel staffing ratios for supervisory ranks in the Police Organization Law were reorganized. While the maximum ratios to be applied in various ranks from first-class police chief to assistant commissioner were updated, a new structure regarding personnel distribution was established. The temporary article regulating the previous ratios was repealed.

A PATH TO RETURN FOR PERSONNEL WHO LEFT DUE TO HEALTH REASONS

The law also includes a new provision for personnel who were dismissed from educational institutions due to health reasons but started duty as graduates following a court decision, and who later left the civil service again due to health reasons. Accordingly, these individuals may be appointed to positions suitable for their status by the General Directorate of Security if they apply within 6 months.

NEW RULES FOR ONLINE NEWS SITES

With the regulation regarding the Press Advertisement Agency (BİK), the qualifications and obligations of online news sites were redefined. While the criteria to be applied to media organizations with the right to publish official announcements and advertisements were updated, organizations acting contrary to their obligations may be subject to penalties of 1 to 25 days of suspension of announcements and advertisements.

In case of repetition of the violation, the sanction periods may be increased. In some cases, the way has been paved for the suspension of announcements and advertisements to be applied for up to 60 days.

News Source: 12punto