CDU Economic Council Proposes Excluding Dental Treatments from Statutory Health Insurance

The Economic Council of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) has put forward significant proposals to reform Germany's social security and tax systems. Central to the recommendations is the suggestion to remove dental treatments from the statutory health insurance coverage. The organization argues that such procedures can be effectively secured through private insurance, reducing the financial burden on public contributors.

The proposal is included in a comprehensive reform paper presented by the Economic Council, which operates as an independent advisory body representing business interests and is not officially part of the CDU. The document aims to address rising social expenditure and prevent further increases in social contributions. Alongside dental care, the council advocates for further reductions in social benefits. These include the elimination of the so-called 'mothers' pension,' the early retirement scheme at age 63, and the basic pension. Additionally, the council suggests that unemployment benefits should be limited to a standard duration of one year, shortening the current period for recipients.

Beyond social insurance reforms, the Economic Council's agenda calls for extensive tax reductions. Key measures include lowering corporate tax rates to 25 percent and abolishing the solidarity surcharge for high-income earners. The paper also recommends a noticeable increase in the income tax exemption threshold to alleviate the burden on taxpayers, aiming to stimulate economic growth and improve overall competitiveness.

Representatives from the Social Democratic Party (SPD), The Left Party, and organizations such as the German Social Welfare Association have expressed strong opposition to these proposals. They argue that reducing statutory support for dental care and other social services may deepen existing inequalities in the healthcare system. Critics contend that these changes would particularly disadvantage low-income individuals, potentially leading to a scenario where access to necessary dental treatments becomes dependent on personal financial resources. The opposition further warns that limiting unemployment benefits and reducing pensions could place additional strain on vulnerable populations.

The Economic Council defends its proposals by emphasizing the need for structural reforms to ensure the financial sustainability of Germany's welfare system. The council argues that reducing public coverage of services like dental care would allow for a more efficient allocation of resources, enabling the country to maintain essential welfare provisions while preventing excessive social contribution rates. The organization also stresses the importance of tax relief for businesses and individuals to encourage investment and job creation, especially in light of current economic challenges.

Debate continues among policymakers and social organizations regarding the balance between fiscal responsibility and social protection. While the Economic Council's proposals are intended to address the mounting pressures on Germany's welfare state, their implementation would mark a significant shift in the provision of public health and social services. The discussion highlights ongoing tensions in the political landscape over the future direction of social policy and the role of private insurance in the healthcare sector.