FDP politician Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann proposed a multi-faceted approach to alleviate the burden of high fuel and energy prices during a recent debate. She called for a temporary reduction of the energy tax on fuels down to the European minimum level, arguing that the state is currently benefiting significantly from the elevated prices, and those gains should be returned to citizens.
Furthermore, she advocated for ensuring that the costs associated with carbon dioxide emissions are managed fairly. Specifically, she suggested that revenue streams should flow directly back to the people, perhaps through a per-person climate bonus or tangible reductions in electricity and other levies. Strack-Zimmermann emphasized the principle of rewarding conservation, stating, “It is fair that those who consume less will then be rewarded”.
She also proposed targeted relief measures for commuters, suggesting an increase and greater flexibility in the commuter allowance, particularly benefiting residents in rural areas, while rejecting the imposition of a speed limit, arguing that it would not lower fuel prices or solve any structural problems.