In a first reading, the Duma passed a bill prohibiting deputies, journalists, and officials from mentioning the use of foreign currencies in their speeches and articles, as well as requiring vendors to specify prices only in rubles.

The bills supporters have called it populist, but legal experts say it will not easily pass. They believe that if the bill causes inconveniences for businesses they can challenge the law in a constitutional court, arguing that it is an impediment to the rights of citizens.

The bill amends both laws regarding mass media as well as the Code of Administrative Offences. The idea was generated by the public chamber and is designed to raise the prestige of the national currency. The bill forbids officials of mass media to express prices in foreign currency or in “unified currency.” Violators who disregard the national currency will be subject to fines equal to about 75 – 1850 USD.

These changes will primarily affect travel companies and vendors of top-end goods, who will have to change their promotional materials to specify prices in rubles.

Source: Biznes