The debate surrounding proposed increases to assessment limits for pension, long-term care and health insurance contributions has intensified, with differing perspectives emerging from leading political figures.
Ines Schwerdtner, leader of the Left party, is advocating for a “radical shift towards fairness” within the social insurance system. She argues that a broader contribution base is needed, particularly from higher earners and those with significant assets. Schwerdtner highlighted the disparity where tradespeople contribute social security levies on their entire income, while managers may only pay on a portion of theirs. She proposes a significant increase to the contribution assessment limit in pension insurance and its complete removal within health insurance.
Felix Banaszak, chairman of the Green party, acknowledged that raising assessment limits is a standard and fair decision that is simply aligned with wage developments. However, he cautioned against viewing this as a comprehensive solution to the ongoing financial challenges facing the social insurance system. Banaszak emphasized the need for further, more substantial reforms to ensure long-term stability and strengthen the system’s solidarity and future-proofing. He suggested that the current measure alone will not resolve the funding issues.