Olaf Lies, the Minister-President of Lower Saxony (SPD), welcomed the decision made by the black-red coalition committee to involve labor unions and employers in the federal government’s reform plans. Speaking to “Welt” Lies characterized this move as a positive signal, noting that the federal government is now committing to closely engaging with social partners. He expressed confidence that tackling the upcoming social reforms, as well as the necessary tax reforms, will lead to solutions. Furthermore, the Lower Saxon government chief emphasized that the involvement of the states in subsequent talks is crucial, given their necessary input in the Federal Council.
Andreas Bovenschulte, the Mayor of Bremen (SPD), also praised the Berlin coalition’s move. He stated that it is beneficial for social partners to have a seat at the table when the coalition discusses essential reforms. Although he acknowledged that the process might still involve discussions and potentially consume time, Bovenschulte argued that a genuinely effective reform package can only be crafted if all social groups are included from the outset.