Agenda Profile: Marek Reinaas
Draft law amending the Consumer Protection Act § 4 (624 SE) - First Reading
2025-05-19
15th Riigikogu, Fifth Session, Plenary Session.
Political Position
The political focus is on the amendment to the Consumer Protection Act regarding the transition to digital invoicing. The general stance on the bill was supportive, confirmed by the consensus decision to conclude the first reading. Õnne Pillak expressed an ambitious desire to expedite the entry into force of the amendments, proposing an earlier deadline (September 1st). The framing of the bill is clearly policy- and procedure-driven.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The expert assessment focuses on the legislative process and the practical application of consumer protection regulations within the commercial sector. During the discussion, specific topics were addressed, such as the cost of software development and the risk of generating digital waste. Minister Keldo and Advisor Aas demonstrated knowledge regarding the negotiations held with the Merchants’ Association and the necessity of consumer awareness.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The speaker's (Reinaas) style is formal, neutral, and procedural, focusing on the objective presentation of the Economic Affairs Committee's discussion and decisions. The tone is descriptive and fact-based, emphasizing the substance of the discussion ("brief, but meaningful discussion"). Emotional appeals are not used; instead, the focus remains on the procedural steps and achieving consensus.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The patterns of activity indicate active involvement in the legislative process, reflecting two sittings of the Economic Affairs Committee (April 24 and May 5) and the subsequent presentation to the plenary session on May 19. This activity is tied to the regular schedule of Riigikogu sessions, seeking to process the draft legislation before the summer recess.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Direct opposition to the bill was not expressed; instead, constructive questions and concerns were raised. Urve Tiidus inquired about the potential increase in digital waste and the high cost of software development, which was more an expression of caution. The criticism was policy-based and focused on the deficiencies in the draft’s implementation provisions (Piia Schults).
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The style of cooperation is consensual and open, given that the Economic Committee’s decisions regarding the further handling of the draft legislation were made unanimously. Minister Keldo highlighted extensive engagement with stakeholders, particularly the Merchants' Association, which signals a readiness to involve partners. Advisors actively participated in identifying substantive gaps.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
Not enough data
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspectives center on the practical impact of the regulation on businesses, specifically the costs associated with software development in the retail and wholesale sectors. The government maintains that the changes will not incur substantial additional costs, as the required software is mostly already available. The discussion also touched upon engagement with the Merchants' Association, referencing the ongoing search for a balance between business interests and consumer protection.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social focus is on consumer protection and informing consumers during the transition from paper invoices to digital billing methods. The necessity was stressed to ensure that consumers with long-term contracts receive notification within a reasonable timeframe and the option to continue receiving paper bills.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative priority is the processing of the draft bill amending the Consumer Protection Act (624 SE), which aims to regulate the transition to e-invoicing. Focus was placed on the absence of implementing provisions concerning long-term contracts, as well as the rapid pace of the proceedings ahead of the Riigikogu's summer recess. Marek Reinaas is serving as the representative and a supporter of the bill's lead committee.
1 Speeches Analyzed