Seven regulations that changed on June 1

A number of new or updated Belgian laws entered into effect on June 1, 2014. Here are seven of them:

1. Brussels Airlines now allows electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets and e-readers to be used throughout their flights, including take-off and landing, as long as they are in airplane mode.

2. The Flemish government now provides additional funding for social housing initiatives. A total of €500 million has been freed up for social housing loans in Flanders.  

3. The price of a standard 32-page Belgian passport is about €6 cheaper, but the price varies per municipality, anywhere from €70 to €90.

4. The structure of the federal police department has changed with an aim to become more modern and streamlined, and to give police officers more authority.

5. Attorneys are now required to receive money from clients and third parties into a separate bank account, so as to avoid mixing business with private interest matters.

6. Shops must now start the period preceding the summer sales during which they cannot offer discounts on June 1, instead of June 6 as was previously the case.

8. Footballers are no longer allowed to show printed messages on their underwear, including texts, drawings or symbols of any kind.