Reducing the financial aid provided to citizens, according to Buschmann's perspective, seems possible.
FDP group leader in parliament Dürr advocates for cutting down citizens' basic income, which is against the law according to Labor Ministry. Justice Minister Buschmann disagrees.
Justice Minister Marco Buschmann believes cutting citizens' basic income is legally allowed. Despite the Ministry of Labor's assertion that the current law prohibits reductions, Buschmann told the "New Osnabruecker Zeitung" that making this change constitutionally is an option. "However, it's constitutionally permissible to modify the relevant law," Buschmann added.
Germany should be proud of its social security system. At the same time, strengthening solidarity with those who work, pay taxes, and support social security is crucial. Early in 2024, the basic income for citizens increased by a total of 12%. Singles now receive 563 euros per month, 61 euros more than the previous year. Dürr, the FDP's parliament group leader, believed the current basic income was 14 to 20 euros per month too high and proposed an "adjustment downwards". However, the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs rejected this proposal on legal grounds. The ministry, under SPD Minister Hubertus Heil, claimed there was no room for maneuver to reduce the basic income due to a "legal protection against reduction" for recipients.
"The Federal Constitutional Court has clearly stated: The basic amount must be sufficient to guarantee a dignified minimum existence for every person in Germany," Buschmann emphasized. This is non-negotiable. However, the question arises as to which method is used to determine the appropriate amount of money. Experts have estimated that the current basic income is too high compared to the inflation rate. "Many people feel this is unfair, especially in times when public funds are limited and many people who regularly work have to tighten their belts financially," the Minister of Justice explained.
Hubertus Heil, the SPD Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, previously rejected Dürr's proposal to reduce the basic income due to legal constraints. Hubertus is also the leader of the recipients with a "legal protection against reduction" in the basic income.
