Traffic light agreed on changes – also with heating costs

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With the citizen money, the standard rates in the basic security are increased.

(Photo: dpa)

Berlin In the dispute over the introduction of citizen income, the traffic light factions have agreed on changes to the draft law that has already been passed by the federal cabinet. For example, only reasonable heating costs should be covered by the job centers in the first two years of receiving the citizen’s allowance.

In the original draft by Labor Minister Hubertus Heil (SPD), it was said that the actual costs would be reimbursed. “This is neither necessary in the current energy crisis, nor is it fair to the community of solidarity that finances the welfare state,” said Jens Teutrine, the FDP member of the Bundestag who is responsible for citizen income.

There should also be changes to the so-called waiting period. According to the draft law, the assets of the benefit recipients will not be touched in the first two years of receiving citizenship benefit, nor will they have to prove that their living space is adequate. But now the traffic light factions want to ensure that during the waiting period at least a move to a more expensive apartment is ruled out. Uneconomical behavior should also lead to cuts in benefits.

In addition, the SPD, Greens and FDP want to ensure that the self-declaration of a benefit recipient that they do not have significant assets is specified. So far, a cross on the application should be enough.

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On Monday, the Committee for Labor and Social Affairs will hold a public hearing on citizen income. Some strong criticism had already been expressed, for example, by employers or local authorities. On Thursday, the Bundestag will finally discuss the social reform.

Read more about basic security here

However, the CDU and CSU still oppose each other, which is important because the countries led by the Union have to approve the law in the Bundesrat. Teutrine also saw the traffic light agreement as a concession towards the Union. The FDP’s demand that only reasonable heating costs be reimbursed was also shared by some union-led countries, “so that we are also extending a hand with the change, which the Bundesrat should accept”.

However, it is unlikely that the changes will satisfy the CDU and CSU. If the Union blocks the law in the state chamber, a mediation committee would have to find a compromise.

More: Traffic light coalition does not allow the Federal Court of Auditors to appear at the citizens’ allowance hearing

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