The Bundestag has passed measures involving a reduction in fuel taxes, often referred to as a “tank discount” and the introduction of a €1,000 incentive bonus. During a recorded vote on Friday, 453 members of parliament voted in favor of lowering the taxes on gasoline and diesel, while 134 opposed the measure. Previously, a majority had already been established for a general “relief bonus”. However, the legislative changes still require approval from the Bundesrat, the federal council representing the states, who are scheduled to meet for a special session on Friday afternoon.
If approved, these legislation changes would, starting in May, see the taxes on diesel and gasoline decrease by approximately 17 cents per liter. Furthermore, the measures would allow employers to distribute a €1,000 bonus to their employees that would be exempt from taxes and fees. Despite the official approval, the reception to the incentive bonus appears cautious, as many companies and states have publicly stated that they do not plan to offer the bonus.