The German Federal Minister for Labour and Social Affairs, Bärbel Bas, has expressed confidence that a draft bill concerning the future of citizen’s income will proceed to the cabinet for consideration, despite ongoing disagreements within the governing coalition. Speaking to “Welt” television on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting, Minister Bas emphasized the importance of reaching a political agreement amongst coalition partners as a first step.
The draft legislation originates from her ministry and she anticipates its formal introduction into the legislative process in October. According to Minister Bas, the primary objective is to provide support to those genuinely in need and facilitate their reintegration into the labour market. She highlighted that enabling people to return to work represents a significant economic benefit. Simultaneously, there is a focus on implementing sanctions for individuals deemed unwilling to participate. While specifics regarding the instruments to be used remain confidential due to the draft’s premature stage, Bas acknowledged that Job Centre employees have expressed a desire for sanctions and cooperation requirements that are manageable and readily enforceable.
In exceptional circumstances, the complete termination of future basic income support is a possibility. The Minister indicated that if individuals become untraceable, a measure already observed in certain cases, financial assistance would be withdrawn. She framed this as a matter of fairness, particularly for those actively engaged and fulfilling their obligations.