Tokayev signs law tightening penalties for school, hospital extortion
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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law imposing stricter penalties for illegal fees in schools, hospitals, and utility services. The legislation increases fines and introduces criminal liability for repeated offenses.
The New Penalties
The law, signed on June 12, 2026, raises fines for demanding illegal payments in educational and medical institutions as well as utility companies. First-time offenders face fines of up to 200 monthly calculation indices (about 738,000 tenge), while repeat violations within a year carry criminal liability with possible imprisonment. The measure targets widespread extortion practices that have drawn public complaints.
Scope and Enforcement
The legislation covers all forms of unauthorized fees, including mandatory contributions for school repairs, medical equipment purchases, and utility connection charges. Local authorities are tasked with monitoring compliance and reporting violations. The Interior Ministry will handle criminal cases for repeat offenders.
What's Next
The law takes effect 10 days after its official publication. It remains unclear how effectively local authorities will enforce the new rules given past difficulties in curbing informal payments.
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Tokayev signs law tightening penalties for school, hospital extortion
