In the first six months of this year, the State Language Center (SLC) initiated 366 administrative violation cases regarding the use of the state language, and 46 legal entities and 289 individuals were fined for violations. Monetary fines were imposed in 316 cases, while 19 cases received warnings. In 77 instances, the offenders were citizens of third countries. Specifically, in 71 cases, fines were imposed for the failure to use the state language to the extent necessary for the performance of professional duties, and in six cases, for not complying with the lawful requirements of officials. "Respecting the state language means respecting our country and each other," notes the director of the SLC, Inese Muhka. She urges everyone, especially service providers, to take responsibility for using the state language in everyday communication, emphasizing that a strong and comprehensive Latvian language is a common space for society and a unifying foundation. As previously reported by BB.lv, the Saeima on Thursday adopted amendments to the law on administrative penalties for violations in the areas of governance, public order, and the use of the state language, prepared by the Saeima deputies from "New Unity," which provide for increased fines for disrespecting the state language.