The Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds (GKV-Spitzenverband) is reportedly preparing legal action against the Federal Republic of Germany, citing insufficient state funding for health insurance contributions for recipients of the “Bürgergeld” Germany’s basic income support program.
According to reports in the “Bild” newspaper, a vote on initiating the lawsuit is expected during a board meeting on Thursday. The core of the legal challenge, as detailed in consultation documents, centers on the perceived inadequacy of funding for the healthcare provision of “Bürgergeld” recipients.
A preliminary paper released by the GKV-Spitzenverband indicates a significant discrepancy between the actual contribution adjustment made in 2022 (€108.48 per month) and the estimated amount needed for full coverage (€311.45 per month). The association projects that the statutory health insurance system will annually shoulder an approximately €10 billion burden related to the government’s responsibilities.
The GKV-Spitzenverband contends that, due to the insufficient funding for health insurance coverage for “Bürgergeld” recipients, the statutory health insurance funds are effectively fulfilling a duty that falls solely under the responsibility of the federal government. The lawsuit will name the Federal Republic of Germany, represented by the Federal Office for Social Assurance, as the defendant. The Higher Regional Court of North Rhine-Westphalia has been designated to handle the proceedings.
Generally, “Bürgergeld” recipients are required to be covered by statutory health insurance, but the statutory health insurance funds are raising concerns about inadequate funding for their contributions sourced from the state budget.