Nawrocki Issues Fresh Vetoes and Demands Referendum on Green Deal

President Karol Nawrocki has vetoed legislation regarding student ombudsmen and the FuelEU Maritime regulation, while simultaneously announcing plans to resubmit a request for a national referendum on the Green Deal.

Vetoes on Student Rights and Maritime Regulations

President Karol Nawrocki vetoed the Student Rights Ombudsman Act, arguing that it would increase bureaucracy and politicize the education system rather than protecting students. He characterized the proposal as the creation of a “school prosecutor’s office for tracking anonymous reports.”

The President also blocked the FuelEU Maritime Act, claiming its implementation would enforce the European Green Deal, which he opposes. He stated that the new regulations would raise operational costs for businesses and weaken the competitiveness of Polish and European ports, prompting his push for a referendum on the matter.

Government Response to Educational Policy

Minister of Education Barbara Nowacka criticized the veto, asserting that the act would have provided a clear catalog of student rights and responsibilities. She accused the President and the PiS environment of preventing young people from being aware of their own rights.

Nowacka further claimed that the President does not listen to the voices of young people, arguing that his administration views youth merely as a background for election campaign events.

Legislative Signings and Energy Disputes

Nawrocki signed several bills, including those concerning student cooperatives, the Pomeranian metropolitan act, criminal procedure protections, the European Arrest Warrant, and energy sector simplification. Regarding energy, he noted this is the final time he will approve the extension of the gas storage ticket mechanism, while urging the government to pass his “Electricity Minus 33 Percent” bill.

Additionally, the President referred the May 15, 2026, excise tax amendment to the Constitutional Tribunal for preventive review, citing the government’s frequent legislative changes that leave businesses with insufficient time to adapt.

Accusations of Political Obstruction

In a published statement, Nawrocki criticized the ruling coalition for failing to deliver on campaign promises and for blocking his own proposed legislation. He argued that the government is harming the public by stalling reforms he introduced immediately after taking office.