Austria is racing against time to finalize a new regulation on data seizure, with a deadline looming at the end of the year.

The ÖVP plans to introduce an initiative in the National Council to address the legal framework for data handling by law enforcement.

The urgency stems from a Constitutional Court decision requiring new rules by January 2025. However, confusion persists over the proposal's details, particularly regarding the separation of powers between the police and the prosecution.

ÖVP Minister Karoline Edtstadler's insistence on a 'personnel separation' has sparked debate, with critics arguing it could hinder investigations.

The SPÖ opposes this separation, advocating for the prosecution to retain control over data processing.

As negotiations continue, the possibility of submitting a placeholder proposal to meet deadlines remains on the table.