Lawmakers have dismissed proposals to eliminate the initial level of care assistance, reaffirming a commitment to maintaining existing support structures for individuals requiring care. Dagmar Schmidt, Deputy Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) parliamentary group, emphasized the party’s opposition to service reductions in an interview with the “Rheinische Post”. She stressed the importance of ensuring widespread access to assistance for all Germans, whether facing personal care needs or supporting family members in care situations.
The focus, Schmidt stated, should be on establishing a financially sustainable foundation for the care insurance system. A joint task force comprising federal and state representatives is currently developing proposals aimed at achieving this stability, which will be carefully evaluated by lawmakers.
Schmidt cautioned against recurring debates regarding service cuts, highlighting the need for a considered and thorough assessment of the task force’s proposals. Additionally, she underlined the necessity of strengthening the revenue side of the system, advocating for a broadly inclusive approach to ensure its long-term financial viability.