Finanzminister Lars Klingbeil of the SPD presents the Federal Budget for 2025 to the German Bundestag, requiring legislative efforts. Before the summer break, he plans to introduce four additional laws. One will establish the new special fund for infrastructure investments, while another will present the budget companion law, serving as the basis for funding new projects outlined in the coalition agreement. Two more laws will concern the 100 billion euros that the federal government intends to transfer to the states from the special fund.
The budget for 2025 and the accompanying laws must be approved by the Bundestag by September 26th for Klingbeil to meet his schedule. During this period, the relevant committees must review the proposals in special sessions during the summer break. Nearly all members of parliament will be affected, as the laws will be discussed in the budget and finance committee, as well as in the justice, interior, environment, transportation, economy and education committees. Moreover, expert hearings must be organized.
Klingbeil faces significant challenges, particularly within his SPD faction. Unlike the Union, many fachpolitische positions are yet to be filled. The SPD is expected to be ready for these positions only next week, causing valuable time for parliamentary consultations to be lost. Despite these hurdles, the implementation of these laws is crucial for the federal government’s infrastructure investments and funding of new projects in line with the coalition agreement. The upcoming legislative process will require the cooperation and commitment of all members of the Bundestag to ensure the timely and effective approval of these vital laws.