Germany’s political parties haven’t worked together much since Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition fell apart in November. Even though the collaboration between the Free Democrats (FDP) and the government ended, there’s a chance that some important laws could still be passed before the early elections set for February 23.
After the FDP left the coalition, Scholz’s government lost its majority, leaving many planned laws uncertain. However, on Friday, the FDP said it would support some of the laws that were already close to being finished. Scholz is set to hold a vote of confidence on Monday and has asked lawmakers to unite and finalize important measures before the elections.
What Laws Could Get Passed This Week?
The old coalition parties – the SPD, Greens, and FDP – agreed on Friday to provide income tax relief and raise child benefits. This plan means that over €11 billion (around $11.6 billion) in tax cuts will be available for 2025 and 2026. Additionally, child benefit payments will increase by €5, bringing the total to €255 each month.
Another key item is the Deutschlandticket, which allows unlimited travel on local transport for a monthly fee of €58 next year. Many people like this idea, but it needs approval for its €1.5 billion cost. Conservative leader Friedrich Merz has stated he will support it.
There might also be new measures to protect Germany’s constitutional court. This court might be at risk if parties on the right or left gain enough seats after the election. This could stop new judges from being appointed, causing delays in the court’s work.
What Laws Probably Won’t Pass?
A law to build more hydrogen-ready power stations was in the works but will likely not happen. These stations are needed to support wind and solar energy, but there isn’t enough time to pass the law. New Finance Minister Joerg Kukies mentioned that the 2025 budget also won’t pass, but the old plan will be used temporarily until a new government takes over.
While the cabinet wanted to extend a rent freeze until 2029, Merz said his party wouldn’t agree because the current freeze lasts until the end of 2025. Scholz’s idea to lower the VAT on food from 7% to 5% is also not expected to work, as both conservatives and FDP think it’s just a move for election votes.
Scholz’s plan for a guaranteed minimum pension of 48% of the average wage is also unlikely to get enough support. His proposal to limit electricity transmission costs to 3 cents per kilowatt-hour also lacks backing from the opposition.
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