Digital Objection Procedures under the General Administrative Law Act in Utrecht
The General Administrative Law Act (Awb) promotes the digitalisation of objection procedures through Article 3:14a and the Digital Decision-Making Act. In Utrecht, municipal objection committees, such as those at the Department of Work and Income and the Objection Committee, are adapting by conducting online hearings to handle local matters more efficiently.
Advantages and Requirements in Utrecht
- Accessibility: Submissions can be made via the Utrecht Message Box, DigiD, or email to the municipality.
- Security: Authentication is mandatory using DigiD or a European-recognised means.
- Equality: The option for an in-person hearing at Utrecht City Hall or neighbourhood offices remains available.
Practical Challenges in Utrecht
Video hearings via platforms such as Webex save time for Utrecht residents and civil servants but require stable internet connections. The judiciary, including the District Court of Midden-Nederland in Utrecht, rules that digital procedures are equivalent provided the hearing obligation under Article 7:2 of the Awb is respected. The Municipality of Utrecht is leading the transition to fully digital procedures, with a target set for 2025, and offers assistance through digital service points in Kanaleneiland and Overvecht.
This modernises administrative law in Utrecht and enhances efficiency for residents and entrepreneurs in the Domstad.