Merz Government Aims to Pass Key Legislation Before Summer Break
As the parliamentary summer recess approaches, the Merz administration is preparing to fast-track significant legislation aimed at stimulating the economy. The first meeting of the coalition committee for the newly formed black-red government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, took place in Berlin. This committee aims to outline the legislative agenda that must be finalized before the summer hiatus begins on July 14 and lasts until September 8.
On May 28, during a cabinet meeting, Merz and his ministers approved two key migration laws that are expected to be passed by the Bundestag prior to the summer break. Additionally, plans to extend the rent control measures were also set in motion. Furthermore, a proposal from Karsten Wildberger's digital ministry was approved, which intends to expedite the expansion of mobile and broadband networks across the country.
The coalition committee, composed of eleven key figures from both the CDU and SPD, is expected to meet more frequently than its predecessor during the previous government. This committee is designed to streamline decision-making processes and enhance legislative efficiency.
Prominent members of the coalition, including Jens Spahn from the CDU and Alexander Hoffmann from the CSU, emphasized the coalition's commitment to addressing pressing issues such as illegal migration, economic revitalization, and energy price reduction. The objective is to ensure that citizens experience the impacts of this political shift in their daily lives.
In addition to the migration laws, the CDU is advocating for various economic measures aimed at fostering growth. These include a proposed 'investment booster' allowing companies to write off 30% of their investments, the repeal of the German supply chain law, reductions in electricity taxes and network fees, and lowering VAT for restaurants. Other considerations include subsidies for agricultural diesel, replacing daily maximum working hours with a weekly limit, tax exemptions for retirees earning additional income, and the elimination of the receipt requirement for small purchases.
The SPD also aims to introduce new legislation in the areas of labor and construction before the summer break, focusing on securing the pension level, implementing a wage loyalty law, and facilitating the designation of new building areas without the need for detailed planning.
Overall, the Merz administration is determined to accelerate the legislative process to ensure that new laws are enacted before the parliament's summer recess. This swift action reflects a desire to implement a series of reforms aimed at addressing economic challenges and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Additionally, there are plans to advance the defense sector, with legislation regarding a voluntary military service and acceleration of Bundeswehr acquisitions expected to be presented for parliamentary approval soon.