The Federal Government has decided to reform citizens’ money and rename it basic security. After long negotiations, the cabinet agreed on a corresponding draft law from Labor Minister Bärbel Bas (SPD). The reform aims to increase the pressure on benefit recipients to take up work. In addition, the sanctions for breaches of duty and missed deadlines will be significantly tightened. Anyone who skips two appointments at the employment office without an important reason will receive 30 percent less money in the future. If the appointment is missed for the third time, payments will be canceled for the time being and the rent will be transferred directly to the landlord.

Critics of the reform, including from the ranks of the SPD, had previously doubted whether it was compatible with the subsistence minimum enshrined in the Basic Law. The federal government does not expect any significant savings from the changes. The Citizen’s money The previous government led by the SPD only introduced it three years ago. During the election campaign, the Union promised to abolish the service.

This article will continue to be updated.