The reform to increase the responsibilities of municipal agents dates back to 2017, when a draft law was first submitted to parliament. The topic was discussed long before then, as early as 2008.

But it looks like the matter is finally making progress as members of parliament on Thursday began finalising changes after the Council of State submitted a third opinion on the draft law. The council must review all draft laws for their compliance with the constitution and other laws.

Under the plans, municipal agents will be able to issue fines from €25 to €250 for offences such as vandalism. They currently mostly issue parking fines.

The changes come as the legal framework for private security agents is also being reformed to more clearly define their remit. Justice minister Sam Tanson on Friday is set to present a draft law, which comes several months after a person was  by a guard dog handled by an private security guard.

In an effort to strengthen public order, the municipal agents will also be able to issue a so-called “Platzverweis”, meaning they are able to tell people to leave a location and move them along for loitering.

A human rights committee had criticised the draft law, saying it infringed upon the rights of the homeless and would further stigmatise and marginalise them.

Luxembourg City mayor Lydie Polfer had said the draft law aimed at allowing public agents who are not police to remove people who are sleeping in the doorways of businesses and homes, where she said families have to climb over people and drugs paraphernalia.

“I hope everyone understands that this is a no-go,” the mayor said, adding that social workers would be involved to help find the individuals another place to stay.